My-Daybreak.org

I have been staying in a rented apartment in Kuala Lumpur for the last couple of years ever since I was posted from Ipoh. I have been trying to purchase a suitable apartment unit within my budget and closer to my budget and closer to my workplace. early this year, I noticed earthworks had commenced to build two blocks of condominiums close to the Titiwangsa terminal (LRT/Bus) and Vistana Hotel.

I immediately set out to book a unit at the developer’s office close to the construction site.

I was shocked to learn from the clerks that all units have been booked or sold. I asked them how this could have happened when it has yet to be officially opened for booking. They told me that it is only for preferred and selected customers.

Who are these selected and preferred customers? Are they paying an undisclosed special premium? How can the authorities allow the developer to adopt such discriminative practices?

Can housing developers offer the units for sale and booking before the official launch? If so, how do the authorities ensure that the developers are fair to the general public with no manipulation to cater for a selected few?

I was disgusted to learn that well-connected local and foreign individuals and investors have snapped up many of the units for speculative purposes.

i recently noticed a that about 60 per cent of the construction has been completed and we have not heard or read about any launch date. i call upon the authorities to investigate and ensure that the public, especially the middle income group, are given an equal opportunity to own an affordable decent apartment in the city.

I am not against developers wanting to make a profit , but they should not forget their social responsibilities to the public.

S. Param

Ipoh

New Straits Times