No new approvals for developers until these projects in Penang commence construction
OVER 70,000 approved affordable housing units in Penang have been stuck in the pipeline for extended periods with no sign of any construction.
Penang housing committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu (pic) expressed concern over these projects’ lack of progress.
According to state publisher Buletin Mutiara, Sundarajoo said although about two-thirds of approved affordable housing units in Penang were being built, some developers were taking too long.
“So far, out of our targeted 220,000 affordable housing units, over 160,000 have either been completed, are under construction, or in the planning phase.
“However, more than 70,000 units categorised under the planning phase have yet to see any actual construction,” he said.
Sundarajoo said he had directed both city councils in Penang to summon the responsible developers for a meeting to address the delays and seek amicable solutions.
“If this issue persists, we will take a firm stand. The state will not approve any new plans for these developers unless they commence construction on their affordable housing projects.”
While acknowledging that this decision was strict, he stressed that it was necessary to prevent further delays.
“If we do not take decisive action, Penang citizens will be deprived of their right to affordable homes.
“Our duty is to ensure that those who cannot afford expensive properties still have access to housing,” Sundarajoo said in his speech at a breaking-of-fast event in George Town.
The event was attended by Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Penang Housing Board (LPNPP) acting general manager Fakhurrazi Ibnu Omar and Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) general manager Datin S. Bharathi.
Sundarajoo reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to achieving its target of 220,000 affordable homes by 2030.
