By Nancy Nais
SIBU, April 19: Nangka assemblyman Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee is planning to set up a People’s Housing Foundation for the underprivileged in his constituency.
The foundation is aimed at assisting low income populations have better access to decent, safe, and well-managed living opportunities.
Dr Annuar, who is also Sarawak Deputy Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister said it is still under discussion and pending approval from the government.
“I got the idea of setting this foundation because I strongly believe that housing is very important and every human being needs a safe and secure place to call home. That is why I started looking into the possibilities with a group of friends and we agreed to help the less fortunate,” he said after the handing over ceremony of a newly built houses under the Jiwa Murni Program to two families at Kampung Seduan Jaya yesterday.
Among those present were Bomba Sarawak director Datuk Khirudin Drahman.
The construction of the two houses were carried out by nine firefighters from Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak Sibu zone at a total cost of RM170,000.
Explaining the foundation’s mechanism, Dr Annuar said funds will only be obtained through donations after collaborating with the private sector and the community.
“As for the implementing agencies, I will need Bomba to assist because these firefighters can build houses, just like what you are seeing now. We can sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on this.
“Depending on how much donations we receive, we can build as many as possible, as long as there is enough money.
“However, priority will be given to those who really need a house, either because they don’t have one or their existing house is in a dilapidated condition or unsafe,” he said.
He added that there will be strict criteria in place for approving every application received, and it is only for those living in Nangka state constituency.
He added that this can be a model or an example for other assemblymen to follow.
Praising Bomba and its firefighters, Dr Annuar was pleased that the rebuilding of the two houses were completed in 60 days, proving that firemen are also apt in carpentry besides their usual role of dousing fires.
Speaking at the event, Khirudin said as the implementing partner, Bomba Sarawak will assist and contribute in anything they can possibly do as long as it benefits the community.
“When ever our people need Bomba, we will deliver. In cases like this, the less fortunate needed our help to build their house.
“While that is our pledge, on our side, we will also do background checks to see if applicants are genuine. If they are, we will move forward and build,” Khirudin said. — DayakDaily
