Penang: The Penang Hindu Association (PHA) hopes the state government will expedite the delivery of affordable housing units amid growing concerns over the increasing number of families struggling to secure proper homes. PHA president P. Murugiah said requests for housing assistance have risen in recent years, reflecting the hardship faced by low-income groups due to the rising cost of living and rentals.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Murugiah expressed alarm regarding families with multiple children who can no longer afford monthly rent, some of whom have resorted to borrowing from loan sharks to settle their arrears, thereby risking homelessness. He issued this statement after PHA’s 26th annual Deepavali Charity Programme, emphasizing the need for the state government to expedite its target of building 200,000 affordable homes by 2030. He also encouraged the Federal and other state governments to replicate Penang’s success in implementing the People’s Housing Project (PPR).

Deputy Chief Minister II, Jagdeep Singh Deo, who officiated the event, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to its affordable housing agenda. He highlighted that 170,000 units have already been completed, positioning Penang as one of the top regions in the country for affordable housing delivery. He also mentioned ongoing improvements in the application process to prioritize those most in need.

During the event, 150 hardcore poor families from Penang Island, Seberang Perai, and Kulim, Kedah, received grocery packages worth RM180 each, along with Deepavali snacks, sweets, and cash aid.