THE Penang government will continue to push the Federal Government for the necessary assistance to maintain public and private housing schemes in Penang.
State Local Government, Housing, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said although Penang is the second smallest state in Malaysia, it contributes the third highest taxes and customs duties.
“Thus based on that, we deserve to get appropriate financial assistance but unfortunately we are not.
“This issue should not be politicised because we are doing it for the sake of Penangites. And we hope the Federal Government can understand that.
“To date this year, the state, through the Penang Housing Board, has applied for a total of RM134.76 million for 198 maintenance projects for public and private housing schemes.
“But unfortunately, they have merely approved RM8,481,000 for 41 projects only.
“Nevertheless, we will continue in our effort not only in ensuring an adequate supply of affordable housing in the state but also to ensure various maintenance works on eligible housing schemes in the state are well taken care of,” Jagdeep told a press conference during his visit to the Taman Harbour View Apartment in Weld Quay today.
Also present was Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen.
On his visit, Jagdeep announced that the state has also approved the Penang Maximum 80% Housing Maintenance Fund (TPM80PP) application by Taman Harbour View Apartment.
“It is for the upgrading of two units of lifts at the apartment.
“Because of its frequent malfunctioning, it has inconvenienced the residents here.
“The total cost of the maintenance work is RM300,010 and the state has agreed to bear 80% of the total cost.
“We are happy that the management corporation of the housing scheme is willing to bear the remaining 20%,” Jagdeep said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of YB Jagdeep’s office