In a speech launching the Rumah Ikram Keluarga Malaysia initiative, Ismail said this would benefit around 10,000 households or 50,000 residents, costing the government RM18.84 million.

The rental waiver for PPR flats has been in place since March last year, and was scheduled to end in December this year.

“This is part of our efforts, initiatives and endeavours for Keluarga Malaysia in need,” he said.

In addition, he said an additional 1,000 PPR units would be allocated under the Rumah Ikram Keluarga Malaysia programme, which provides temporary low cost housing for families displaced by the effects of the pandemic.

There will be no rental charged for the first six months after keys are handed over, Ismail announced, after which rental will start at RM124 a month for a maximum term of two years.

“Rumah Ikram Keluarga Malaysia provides shelter for Malaysian families who have lost their income, or may have lost their jobs and can no longer afford to pay high rent.

“Similarly, there are those who have resorted to staying at relatives’ homes because they had to move out of their rented houses.”

The programme is part of the housing and local government ministry’s ongoing efforts to help provide affordable and accessible housing to those affected by the pandemic.

We are live on Telegram, subscribe here for breaking news and the latest announcements.