Address the problem of unoccupied houses
NST 19/04/2004

THE scores of abandoned housing projects posed great challenges to the Government, especially following the financial crisis.

Thanks to the timely action of the authorities, some of the problems were solved.

However, of late, a different kind of problem seems to be surfacing at numerous housing projects.

Large numbers of units remain unoccupied, for as long as 10 years, and some even more.

Overgrown lalang, broken fences, dilapidated structures with broken doors and windows are all familiar sights.

Complaints to the local councils have no effect. They are quick to point out that they are not empowered to enter private properties. But what is most puzzling is that despite the growing number of unoccupied properties, the housing industry seems to be opening up new developments across the country.

It is about time the Housing and Local Government Ministry addressed this problem. Demand, supply and legitimate ownership cannot be left to private enterprise forces.

An immediate study should be commissioned to establish the number of houses sold and units unsold by every developer. It must also consider rules and procedures to ensure the maintenance of unsold properties.

We also need a system that will enable local authorities to obtain relevant information and act against errant owners.


J.D. LOVRENCIEAR
Semenyih