THE GRS-BN State Government will use the four-fold increase to RM125.6 million in the special grant for Sabah by the Federal Government to build 1,500 units of Rumah Mesra SMJ in all 73 state constituencies.
The houses costing RM70,000 each would be given free to those who deserve them,
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor said the Rumah Mesra SMJ, previously known as Projek Perumahan Rakyat Termiskin or PPRT (Hardcore Poor People’s Housing Project) would be distributed evenly to all the constituencies in Sabah.
“This decision is in line with the State Government’s Haja Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) initiative to ensure the wellbeing of the people and that they have access to affordable housing.
“Excess funds from the allocation would be used to repair roads, suspension bridges and other infrastructures as well as properties damaged by floods,” he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Hajiji in a joint statement the week before said the Federal Government agreed to increase the annual special grant for Sabah by 4.7 fold from RM26.7 million to RM125.6 million beginning this year.
Hajiji said it was a good start for Sabah while assuring that the funds would be put to good use for the benefit of the rakyat and the state.
At the same time, he said the GRS-BN State Government was determined to pursue for more through negotiations that are still ongoing to get the 40 per cent as agreed under the 1963 Malaysia Agreement (MA63).
Hajiji who is Bersatu Sabah Chief said this was among the many successes achieved by the GRS-BN State Government only after three years in power.
* Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss.
* Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
