BENTONG: Felda settlers here want the government to help second generation settlers and the younger generation to ease the process of getting housing loans.
Those from Felda Mempaga urged the government to have a multi-generation housing project so that the young generation can apply for plots of land to build their own house.
Mohamed Zaki Samah 42, said currently there are three families staying under one roof, making things inconvenient, other than overcrowding.
“I hope the government can help the second generation, so our children and young generation of settlers continue living in Felda.
“I have three children, my elder son has his own family and stays with us.
“There are many families like us,” said Mohamed Zaki, who has been a loyal supporter of Barisan Nasional.
Zaki said Bentong Felda settlers are also grateful to the Barisan government for helping Felda settlers with their livelihoods.
“We also urge the government to help us get land titles as sometimes we have to wait for three month or longer to get it,” he said.
Rosydiah Abdul Razak 32, also called for more help for second generation Felda settlers.
She gave her house as an example which has two families living under one roof.
“My son wants to have a new house, so we hope there is a special scheme for Felda settler young generation to get a housing loan.
“Not all of the youngsters are able to own a house, we have to rent it,” she said.
Mohd Tarmizai Mohamed, 43, said living standards in Felda schemes have improved, and settlers are generally happy.
“We can see many of our youngsters are educated and have good achievements,” he said.
Mohd Tarmizi hopes that after the general election, the winning party could help to develop Bentong and create more opportunities for Felda settlers.
Hatipah Mukhtar, 55, who owns a cake shop in Felda Mempaga 1, said she was sad when Barisan lost Bentong in the last general election.
“When Barisan ruled, our livelihood was good, and that helped us a lot. For the past four year, the cost of living has increased, and our income has dropped,” she said.
“I have four children, they have good achievements in their own field. One of my sons is an architect, and another daughter is working in a hospital,” she said.
Hatipah agreed that Bentong needs more development, especially East Coast Rail Link, which will cut short the travel time between Bentong and Kuala Lumpur.
“My children can save on their travelling time to Bentong to visit me. On weekends, there is always a high volume of traffic on the roads.”
