GEORGE TOWN: A Malay-based non-governmental organisation wants the state government to come up with more affordable housing schemes on the island for the community here.

Penang Malay Congress president Rahmad Isahak said the state government’s plan to develop the island into an international-class one, was commendable but it would undeniably affect the economy of the Malays in the state if many were forced to relocate out of their ancestral houses due to rising living costs.

However he did not deny that many residents here could benefit from the rapid development pace as it would create employment opportunities.

“However, the current housing schemes are far from being affordable, especially for the Malays on the island. Only a small number of us can afford to buy homes on the island and even if we can afford them, the majority can afford only low-cost apartments,” he said a press conference here yesterday.

He urged the state government to look into the social and economic welfare of the Malays in Penang.

“There is a strong imbalance in the socio-economic conditions in Penang. Most of the Malay middle-income earners here can afford to buy houses in only Balik Pulau and Seberang Prai,” he claimed.

Source: The Star