KUCHING: The Sarawak government has provided RM10,000 in Housing Deposit Assistance Scheme (HDAS) funds to 1,900 housing units statewide to date.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative was in support of homeownership for eligible house buyers.
“Earlier today, we attended a ceremony to hand over keys for houses developed by Housing Development Corporation (HDC) in collaboration with Hong Seng Construction.
“They have built over 250 Sri Pertiwi homes here, all of which have been purchased by our community. They are also planning to develop three more phases in this area,” he said.
He pointed out that with over 250 homes in that area, the government is providing approximately RM2.54 million in deposits.
“This amount does not need to be repaid, as the government, under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) covers all deposits, and homebuyers only need to continue monthly payments to Mutiara Mortgage and Credit Sdn Bhd,” he said after officiating at the handing over of keys to house owners at Vision Hill Sri Pertiwi Housing project at Matang today.
Abang Johari said that Hong Seng Construction will also collaborate with HDC to develop another housing area at Mile 15, Kuching-Serian Road.
“I understand that the homes provided will be similar to these, with perhaps slight differences. Importantly, Hong Seng is providing parking spaces for two cars, meaning there is no need for additional construction, as it is already provided.
“Usually, Sri Pertiwi homes offer only one parking space, but Hong Seng is adding another at no extra charge. This is a benefit for buyers, as there is already space for two cars.
“I congratulate HDC, Hong Seng, and the buyers receiving their homes today,” said the Premier.
Meanwhile, director of Hong Seng Construction Tan Chen Sin said that the company believes that every family deserves a home that is not only affordable but also well-constructed, functional and sustainable.
“This land where we are gathered today spans approximately 60 acres, and we have allocated one-third of it, divided into two phases totaling 252 units of Sri Pertiwi Affordable Housing.
“This is our initiative to align with the Sarawak Government’s vision of providing more affordable housing,” he said.
He also said that the original scheme requirement for the houses only mandated one car park per unit.
“However, we understand that for many first-time homeowners, extending a car porch after receiving the keys can be a financial burden.
“It may also affect the overall appearance of the neighborhood if each house expands differently, potentially causing safety hazards.
“To solve this issue upfront, we built a two-car parking space with a wide culvert to accommodate future needs without additional costs to homeowners,” he said.
