by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 23: The National Consumer Action Council (MTPN) warns the public to be extra cautious when selecting contractors for their housing projects.
This comes in response to reports of 20 individuals losing RM1.8 million in a house construction scheme by a construction company registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
According to a news report by Suara Sarawak, the total project cost was RM2.2 million, with victims from across Sarawak, including Bintulu, Betong, Sarikei, Sibu, Kanowit, Selangau, Mukah, Dalat, Daro, Sri Aman, and Miri.
At a press conference yesterday, MTPN Sibu Branch chairman Lucas Lau was quoted as saying that the scam began with an advertisement on Facebook. The contractor had also actively hosted exhibitions to attract victims by showcasing housing plans and brochures of various house models.
To appear more legitimate, the contractor had appointed agents to recruit victims from December 2022 to November 2023 while using the slogan ‘Building houses on your own land’ to lure landowners.
The company also offered other services, such as home renovations, and provided written agreements to gain customers’ trust.
However, the scam began to unravel itself as soon as the victims made their initial payments.
“After the victims made the initial payment, most of the construction or renovation work was only completed between five to ten per cent,” Lau said.
When MTPN investigated the matter further by visiting the company’s office, they found that the office had been closed for some time.
“Efforts to contact the contractor also failed, and the company’s Facebook page was also deleted. We have advised the victim to file a police report.
“We also urge more victims to come forward so that the relevant authorities can take action,” Lau said.
Lau further emphasised the importance of due diligence when hiring contractors, advising the public to verify their backgrounds and ensure they are government-certified.
MTPN continues to monitor the situation and support affected individuals. – DayakDaily
