Residents at three public housing flats in Relau are now benefiting from safer and more reliable lift services following the completion of lift modernization and repair works funded by the Penang State Government under the Penang Maximum 80% Maintenance Fund (TPM80PP).

Paya Terubong assemblyman Wong Hon Wai said a total of RM478,950 was allocated to upgrade and repair nine lifts across Taman Alor Vista, Desa Aman and Taman Desa Relau 2. The projects comprised one lift modernization and three lift repairs at Taman Alor Vista (RM103,600), two lift repairs at Desa Aman (RM168,800), and three lift modernization works at Taman Desa Relau 2 (RM206,550).

The works were carried out following applications submitted in 2025 by the Paya Terubong constituency office together with the respective management bodies to the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP). All projects have since been completed and are now operational.

According to Wong, the completed upgrades have significantly improved the safety, stability and efficiency of the lift systems, while enhancing the daily convenience and overall living conditions of residents. He said the projects reflect the state government’s continued commitment to maintaining public housing and providing a safer, more comfortable living environment.

During the inspection, Wong also responded to recent claims by Penang Gerakan chairman Oh Tong Keong, who alleged that the state government allocates only RM50,000 annually for low-cost housing assistance. Wong described the statement as misleading, explaining that it confuses two separate funding mechanisms.

He said the TPM80PP is a long-term maintenance programme established to help strata communities repair and upgrade essential facilities such as lifts, water tanks and roofs. Under the scheme, the state government covers up to 80% of maintenance costs for eligible low-cost housing, with the balance shared by the management body. Medium-cost housing units are eligible for up to 60% funding.

The RM50,000 allocation cited by Oh, Wong clarified, refers instead to the Penang Island City Council’s Strata Building Assistance Incentive (MBPP), which serves as a supplementary fund for urgent repairs rather than the state’s primary maintenance programme.

Wong noted that between 2008 and 10 May 2026, the Penang State Government had allocated RM99.42 million under TPM80PP, supporting 1,049 maintenance projects. These included 556 lift upgrading or replacement projects and 347 water tank repair or replacement projects, underscoring the state’s long-term commitment to improving the safety and quality of life for residents in stratified housing developments.

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