Machap jaya: A total of 40 dilapidated homes belonging to the Orang Asli community in seven villages within the Machap Jaya state constituency have been proposed for repair, utilizing allocations from the Melaka state government. The estimated total cost for these repairs is RM800,000.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Machap Jaya assemblyman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem stated that applications for the repair works were submitted in stages, covering both the first and second phases. This initiative aims to assist families whose homes are damaged and require urgent repairs. Datuk Ngwe emphasized that the state government's approval enables the use of state allocations for these repairs, reducing reliance on Federal Government funds through the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA).

Datuk Ngwe noted that while JAKOA does have allocations, they are limited. This year, the department can only build two new homes in the Machap Jaya state constituency and repair fewer than five homes. He shared these insights with reporters after the Jelajah Ketua Menteri Sayang Rakyat (MeSRa) program was officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh in the Machap Jaya state constituency.

The repair cost for each home is estimated at no more than RM20,000, with the total amount sought for the 40 homes amounting to RM800,000. Datuk Ngwe highlighted the benefits of the Jelajah Ketua Menteri Sayang Rakyat program, which allowed local residents to express their concerns directly to the Chief Minister, who personally visited each location during the program.

Datuk Ngwe added that many villagers expressed happiness that the Chief Minister took the time to engage with them at each checkpoint, leading to the resolution of several issues. This approach enables the state government to understand the residents' needs firsthand, ensuring that assistance is directed to those in need, including in areas such as housing, education, and the needs of local agencies and communities.