FREE MALAYSIA TODAY. 25TH OCTOBER: Zahir Hassan says some of the purchasers had died even before they could occupy their homes as a result of delays.
Zahir Hassan (PH-Wangsa Maju) was overcome with emotion when recounting the plight of purchasers of a “sick” private housing project in his constituency, known as Residensi Hektar.
In debating the 2024 supply bill, Zahir congratulated the special task force formed under the local government development ministry for rescuing more than 256 sick and abandoned private housing projects.
He told the Dewan Rakyat the special task force had also given much-needed attention to the “critically sick” Residensi Hektar project, which has 2,400 housing units.
Zahir said purchasers of Residensi Hektar units had to pay for rent while repaying their bank loans as their homes had not been completed.
“This delay has also given rise to social issues such as divorce among buyers.
“Furthermore, with deep sadness, we note that some of them have already died without getting the chance to move into their new homes,” he said, choking back tears.
At this point, Dewan Rakyat deputy speaker Ramli Nor told Zahir to take a moment and sit down. Zahir, however, decided to press on with his speech.
He urged the government to provide justice to the homebuyers severely affected by such delayed projects.
“With the assistance and support of the government, we hope this project can be restored and bring relief to all involved.”
Ramli said he understood the struggle of elected representatives who are dedicated in serving their constituents but yet have to face “so much hindrance”.