KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) has completed repair works on 37 houses under Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the House Repair for the Poor Programme this year, with a total allocation of RM740,000.
Chairman of MPP, Tan Kai, said the initiative is part of the Ministry of Housing and Local Government’s (KPKT) urban poverty eradication efforts, with MPP serving as the implementing agency since 2016.
“Since the programme started in the second half of 2016, MPP has successfully repaired 274 houses for the poor, involving a total expenditure of RM4.57 million. The assistance aims to improve the living conditions of the B40 group, particularly those registered in the e-Kasih system,” he said at the handing-over ceremony today.
Tan Kai explained that the programme provides up to RM20,000 per household for repairs such as roofing, flooring, walls, windows, doors, toilets, and other essential structures to ensure the houses are safe and habitable.
“In 2024, the government increased the allocation from RM15,000 to RM20,000 per house, allowing us to carry out more comprehensive repairs for families in need. This is in line with the objectives of the 10th and 11th Malaysia Plans, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, which focus on reducing poverty and improving quality of life,” he added.
He also encouraged eligible applicants to apply for future assistance. “Those registered in e-Kasih, living within MPP’s jurisdiction, and owning a house or land in poor condition can apply through the council. Our aim is to ensure no family is left behind in having a safe and decent home,” he stressed.
Tan handed over the repaired houses today to two recipients, Mohamad Jini and Rani Bakar, in Kampung Sinar Budi Baru and Kampung Stapok.
By Connie Chieng