Let housing tribunal play its role, says Ong

20/12/2003 The Sun

Kuala Lumpur: The role of the Housebuyers' Claims Tribunal is to protect property buyers' interests and not to "snatch" other parties' responsibilities. Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said yesterday.

"The tribunal is only a referee, to ensure that housing developers fulfil what is stated in the sale and purchase agreement and not to snatch any party's rights," he said after inspecting the preparations for the special dinner today for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here.

"I don't see why certain parties are trying to obstruct the role or functions of the tribunal. It should be given a chance to carry out its duties efficiently," he said.

Ong was commenting on the Appeals Court's decision that those who bought their property before Dec 1 last year could refer their disputes to the tribunal.

On Thursday, the appellate court set aside the High Court's Sept 4 decision that the tribunal did not have the jurisdiction to hear claims involving property purchased before Dec 1 last year - the day the amended Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1966 came into effect.

Ong also urged housing developers to fulfil their obligations when dealing with housebuyers.

"I also like to remind developers they must be honest.

"When they have collected the money from buyers and signed the sale and purchase (agreement), they must fulfil all their responsibilities and not try to run away," he said.