Johor bahru: A total of 55 candidates from various districts in Johor today have been vetted to receive free homes under the Rumah Kasih Johor (RKJ) programme. Johor Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Shukor stated that 36 candidates would be supported, 18 rejected, and the remaining one would be suspended pending further evaluation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, candidates were selected during an RKJ selection committee meeting chaired by Datuk Mohd Jafni Shukor. The meeting included presentations by seven district offices: Batu Pahat, Mersing, Kota Tinggi, Kulai, Pontian, Johor Bahru, and Kluang.

Datuk Mohd Jafni Shukor emphasized that the meeting reflects the state government’s commitment to ensuring fair selection based on the true needs of the public. He highlighted the importance of viewing the process with empathy and integrity, aiming to provide homes as a ray of hope to those neglected. The decision-making process was conducted through consensus and based on strict criteria.

The programme involved several state constituencies, including Machap, Kota Iskandar, Johor Jaya, Tiram, Mahkota, Mengkibol, Paloh, Tenggaroh, Semarang, Seri Medan, Pekan Nenas, Panti, Pasir Raja, Johor Lama, Layang-Layang, Kahang, Penawar, and Kukup. The meeting was also attended by Kota Iskandar assemblyman Datuk Pandak Ahmad and Penawar assemblyman Fauziah Misri.

The Johor government has allocated RM67 million for the construction of 500 free units under the RKJ programme. In 2023, 50 units worth RM6.5 million were completed and handed over to recipients. Datuk Mohd Jafni further mentioned that 165 units worth RM22 million are currently undergoing technical investigation and site visits, with the first building phase having commenced on May 15.