CM Chow: Groups using eviction to accuse Penang govt of racial discrimination

GEORGE TOWN (March 8): “Unnamed sections” are using the eviction of ineligible tenants from Taman Manggis to brand the state government of racial discrimination, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (pictured) revealed today, reported The Malay Mail.

“This is not a racial issue; this is an administrative action in accordance with laws and regulations on PPR housing,” he told the media after a World Women’s Day event today.

Chow also explained that Penang authorities had to “ensure that PPR units are only taken up by eligible tenants as the Auditor-General (A-G) has questioned the state on its management of the PPR units”.

*Rules governing PPR must be strictly applied, says Zuraida

The A-G had noted that ineligible tenants were staying in units when qualified renters were still on waiting to rent.

The news portal also reported that Chow “hoped” the stubborn tenants will understand that the evictions were lawful and other accommodations have been issued to them.

But the recalcitrant tenants insist on living in Taman Manggis

Chow said the state was under observation for compliance. He added that the state government “will look to improve any weaknesses found in the current eviction process if these are detected”.

Meanwhile, Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin has said that there should be “firm enforcement” over regulations the “governing” of the people’s housing project (PPR) units.

Enforcement must also be regular and the public need to understand that laws were applicable to all, she added.