THE Penang government will review the household income eligibility criteria for individuals interested in renting People’s Housing Project (PPR) units.
Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo (PH-Perai) stated that the current household income requirement is below RM1,500, which is lower than the Ministry of Housing and Local Government’s (KPKT) threshold of below RM3,000 per month.
“The state government is adjusting household income criteria to align with the poverty line and the latest classifications for extremely poor and B40 households.
“The review of the monthly household income eligibility rate will be thoroughly examined before submission to state authorities for approval.
“As of April 30, there are 940 people registered on the waiting list for rental housing,” said Sundarajoo, replying to Phee Syn Tze (PH-Sungai Puyu) during the oral question session at the State Legislative Assembly sitting today.
According to Sundarajoo, the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP) is examining and updating application data through the Housing Information System (SMP).
“The state government will introduce new policies by year-end, aligning with the Penang2030 vision. The aim is to provide up to 220,000 affordable houses, with 10% (22,000 units) offered as rent-to-own.
“As a caring government, our goal is to ensure every family has at least one home. While the PPR house is provided for a maximum of three years, we hope families will improve economically and have the opportunity to own a home through rent-to-own schemes.
“If economic conditions don’t improve, families can reapply for another three years of rental. With concerted effort, the government believes their economic status can improve within six years,” he added.
Story by Nur Syakirah Mohd Basri and Nurul Hawa Farahin