KOTA KINABALU: A couple with disabilities from Kampung Tinompok Pukak in the foothills of Mount Kinabalu can now live more independently after receiving a new home under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Housing Programme.
Hendary Felik Lapik, 51, who has a speech impairment and wears a prosthetic leg, received the key to his new house from Kiulu assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai in a small handover ceremony, on Friday (July 18).
Perched beside a paddy field, near the river and just off the roadside, Hendary’s new home sits on family-owned land, offering both accessibility and a peaceful environment.
He lives with his wife, who also has a speech disability, and their two daughters, aged two and five years old.
Prior to receiving the house, Hendary and his family lived in a household shared with his extended family.
According to his brother, Bonnyface Felik Lapik, who is also the Village Development and Security Committee chairman of Kampung Bolotikon, the home marks a new phase of independent living for the couple and their children.
“This gives them the space to live on their own, while still being close enough for family to visit and assist when needed.
“It will help them manage better as a family and give the children more room to grow,” he said, adding that the family helped facilitate the application for the SMJ house.
Hendary supports his household through various types of small-scale work in the village.
In a brief exchange during the handover, Hendary expressed his gratitude through gestures, thanking the assemblyman and government for the assistance.
He also invited several friends with similar disabilities to be present, wanting to share the moment with them.
Joniston said the SMJ housing programme is part of the state government’s ongoing commitment to improve the living conditions of rural residents, especially those with low income and physical challenges.
“We want to make sure that people with different needs, including those with disabilities, are not left behind. A home like this can have a big impact on daily life.
“More SMJ houses will be built in Kiulu because there are still many less fortunate families who need proper housing,” said Joniston.
There are currently 120 SMJ houses built in the Kiulu constituency under the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan, continuing the state’s commitment to community welfare and inclusive rural development.
