Kuching: Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has raised concerns that residents of the Taman Sri Cahaya Tondong public housing flats in Batu Kawa have been living in their homes for 23 years without receiving strata titles.
Speaking at a Chinese New Year celebration organised by the flats’ community committee recently, Chong said he was surprised to learn, after the Chairman of KRT RPR Taman Sri Cahaya Tondong’s remarks, that the issue remains unresolved after more than two decades.
Chong pointed out the contrast with other forms of ownership documentation, noting that vehicle ownership papers, commonly referred to as a “Green Card” (Certificate of Entitlement), can be obtained shortly after purchase.
In comparison, he said, homeowners in the flats have been waiting 23 years for official strata titles.
“If this were a private developer, they would have been sued and punished by the buyer long ago. But now the seller is the government, and the government has the final say. The residents can only swallow their anger,” he said.
He emphasised that the Sarawak government should bear basic moral responsibility in addition to legal constraints.
“Residents’ houses often represent their life’s savings, and 23 years without a strata title is unacceptable, no matter how many reasons are given,” Chong said.
He added that the state assemblyman for the area, who also serves as Housing Minister, should ensure the matter is addressed and resolved without further delay.
Chong also called for strengthened oversight, checks and balances, and challenges from the opposition party to urge the government to work more proactively.
“Otherwise, without challenges and pressure, constantly winning might lead to complacency,” he said.
Chong also acknowledged neighbourhood committee chairman Chai Jun Chen for bringing the issue to attention and said he would assist in following up with the relevant authorities.
