KIMANIS: After a decade of waiting, 38-year-old labourer Yohanes Sina Openg from Membakut finally received the keys to his new home, a three-bedroom Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) house.
The father of seven children, whose ages range from 8 months to 17 years, had previously lived with his parents in a crowded household.
Yohanes expressed his happiness and gratitude for finally securing his home after the long wait. The handover ceremony was recently officiated by Membakut assemblyman Datuk Mohd Ariffin Mohd Arif
"Previously when I stayed with my parents, it was quite uncomfortable as it was crowded," he said.
Yohanes described the new house as a Christmas gift, marking the first year he and his family would have their own space.
"It is a Christmas gift, as this is the first time I am owning a house," he said.
However, instead of decorating the house, we chose to celebrate the festive season at my parents' home, as it has been a tradition," he added.
Yohanes was one of the recipients for Sabah government's housing initiatives.
The Sabah government has announced plans to double the number of Rumah Mesra Sabah Maju Jaya units allocated to each state constituency next year.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said that around 3,000 units will be built to support more individuals in the hardcore poor category who do not yet own a home.
Previously, the allocation was 20 SMJ houses per state constituency, but this will be increased to 40 houses.