THE Rifle Range Flats in Padang Tembak, considered to be the oldest public housing scheme in Penang, need to undergo a revitalisation process to ensure a better living environment.
Jason Ong Khan Lee (PH – Kebun Bunga) told the State Legislative Assembly at Dewan Sri Pinang yesterday that the housing scheme, which was built some 50 years ago, was now in a dilapidated condition and needs to be upgraded.
He also made a comparison between his age and the Rifle Range housing scheme.
“I am still doing well but the Rifle Range Flats are in a bad state.
“Once again, I would like to appeal to the state government for proper maintenance and upgrading of the flats.
“Most importantly, the state government must have an effective action plan to see that all maintenance issues are handled in a well manner.
“I hope the urban regeneration effort will be undertaken to improve the standard and quality of life for the residents in Rifle Range,” he said when debating the Supply Bill.
State Housing, Town, Country Planning and Local Government Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo had been reportedly saying the state government has plans to regenerate the housing scheme.
Ong also emphasised the importance of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) and hoped that the state would keep up with the technological revolution to transform itself.
“Penang has a lot of potential compared to other states in terms of infrastructure and connectivity,” he added.
Story by Edmund Lee