KUALA TERENGGANU: Even for hardcore poor Hindus in the state, Deepavali is always a time of joy. But this Deepavali is especially sweet, as the state government has assured them of affordable homes very soon.
Making the announcement, Menteri Besar Ahmad Razif Abdul Rahman said that just like any eligible anak Terengganu (Terengganuan), the Indian community, too, is eligible for affordable homes under the state government’s housing scheme.
For starters, Razif said 20 units of affordable homes will be reserved for the Indian community in the state.
“Although the Indian community makes up just a fraction of the estimated one million Terengganu population, we have not forgotten them.
“They are equally important, and we will do the necessary to assist those, especially the hardcore poor, who are eligible to live comfortably.
“And this is your Deepavali present for this year,” he said during the Malam Deepa 2016 at the Primula Beach Hotel.
Present were MIC deputy president Datuk Seri S.K. Devamany, who is also Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Terengganu MIC chairman Dr K.V. Dayal Krishnan, state legislative assembly speaker Datuk Mohd Zubir Embong, state local government and housing committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jidin Shafee, and state agriculture, agro-based industry, plantations and commodities committee chairman Datuk Muhammad Pehimi Yusof.
Razif said the state government, via the 1Malaysia People’s Housing scheme, will build 20,000 affordable homes next year.
“We hope the Indian community will continue to support the state government’s initiatives to uplift the socio-economy and development of Terengganu,” said Razif, who presented RM91,000 in financial aid to 260 needy Indians at the dinner.
On another note, Razif said one of the areas earmarked for affordable homes is a 4.8ha tract of land in Tok Jembal, Kuala Nerus.
“We plan to build 300 such homes at a cost of RM75 million through Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) at a subsidized price of RM68,000 each.
“We will also offer medium-cost terrace houses for between RM200,000 and RM300,000 each for others who have yet to own a house,” said Razif.