NIBONG TEBAL: It has been more than three years since federal agencies submitted applications to build affordable homes in Penang but the authorities are still awaiting approval.

Penang Federal Action Council chairman Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Osman said the Penang Regional Development Authority and JKP Sdn Bhd had set aside funds for the housing projects.

“We sought input from the local authorities and have fulfilled all technical requirements for the low and medium-cost houses.

“The grounds at the project sites had been levelled but we are still waiting for approval for the 9,500 houses to be built.

“I met state Housing Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh but he has no authority to make the final decision.

“I hope the Chief Minister (Lim Guan Eng) will meet me and I’ll explain to him.

“These houses are for the people, and not to be sold to foreigners. This is for the rakyat’s benefit.

“We hope the state government will act professionally and rationally,” Zainal, who is also state Umno chairman, told the media at his Raya open house in Jawi.

More than 10,000 people thronged Zainal’s open house between 11am and 3pm yesterday.