FORMER Kampung Buah Pala residents can expect to move into their new homes by early next year, ahead of schedule.

Deputy Chief Minister II Dr P. Ramasamy said that construction of the houses would be completed in January and the families could expect to move in after the occupancy certificate is obtained.

The group, evicted from their century-old village in Gelugor in Penang last year, had opted for compensation of double-storey houses estimated at RM500,000 each.

Dr Ramasamy said this after giving the 15 families RM500 each for Deepavali yesterday.

Representatives from the 15 families were present and some shed tears after receiving the aid.

M. Velavan, 18, who came with his father and grandmother, said they would use the money to buy food and clothing to celebrate the festival.

He said they were glad to hear that the houses would be completed ahead of schedule.

He said he and his parents and siblings were living in a rented two-room flat in Jelutong.

SOURCE: The Star