Approach your community leaders to request for house repairs, new units, poor folk advised
SIBU: Families without the financial means to repair their dilapidated houses may approach their community leaders for help in applying for financial assistance under the Housing Aid Programme.
According to Penghulu Ten Kim Loong, not many people are aware of such government assistance to help those who are financiallydisadvantaged.
“The government has many schemes aimed at helping the poor folk. The Housing Aid Programme is one of ways to help poor families either to repair their houses or get new ones,” Ten said.
He said following receipt of an application, officers would go to the house to see whether renovation or building new units would be the requirement.
He said building a new house might need RM60,000, while renovation would not go beyond RM18,000.
“Of course, they will also check the family background and so forth to ensure the eligibility of the applicant,” he told reporters during a visit to a house belonging to Seo Song Fat in Stabau recently.
Seo’s house needs to be rebuilt as the present one, which has been around for a few generations, is considered unsafe for occupation.
Seo, 57, lives with his wife Julia Parandaud, 42, and their six children. He sells fruits and vegetables, which he plants himself.
His house is expected to be ready in a few weeks from now.
According to Ten, six houses in Stabau and Durin have been built for poor families, while many other houses have undergone renovation.
“Our service is free, so do come and approach us if you need help,” he advised.