KUALA LUMPUR: Offering subsidies to address issues in strata housing, such as maintenance, is not possible due to financial constraints, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said financial constraint is a major factor, considering there are currently over 24,385 strata building schemes in the country, totalling 2.83 million units.
"No government in the world, including Malaysia, can provide subsidies for strata homeowners.
"If all strata housing units were to rely on government subsidies, it would not be possible due to financial constraints.
"However, the government remains committed to supporting the people. Under the Madani Government initiative, RM300 million has been allocated over two years for the repair and maintenance of old and deteriorating buildings," he said, in response to Mohd Hasnizan Harun (PN-Hulu Selangor).
Hasnizan inquired whether the government is ready to provide subsidies or incentives for low-cost housing to address issues related to strata housing, particularly maintenance.
Meanwhile, Nga said every unit under the Program Residensi Rakyat (PRR), a new public housing initiative by the ministry set to roll out next year, will receive two access cards.
He said the cards will grant residents entry to gated communities and access to lifts.
"To gain access, residents must make their (maintenance) payments. Those who choose not to comply will be denied access.
"This initiative aims to encourage residents to work together as a community, fostering cooperation and respect.
"The government is confident that these efforts will help maintain the quality of strata buildings and enhance the living conditions of all residents," he said.
The PRR was announced by Nga on March 8, in which under the new housing model, each unit with a construction cost of RM300,000 will be sold at RM60,000 with up to RM15,000 out of the payment to be set aside for maintenance and sinking funds.