Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the effort was a priority for the unity government to ensure that the welfare of PPR residents, especially the urban poor, continues to be safeguarded.

“Two years ago, we spent RM100 million. So over the past two years, RM285 million has already been spent but I have no problem (with spending more) because this (money) will be used to repair lifts and improve facilities.

“The government is taking responsibility (for the repairs needed) but such efforts must be welcomed by the community,” he said when officiating a community forum with the support of Think City, at Lembah Subang 1 PPR here today.

In his speech, the prime minister also announced an allocation of RM1.2 million for the Lembah Subang 1 PPR repair project, especially involving lifts that often break down.

Anwar called for the housing and local government ministry to expedite the repair of the lifts so that residents in the area can enjoy some comfort before Ramadan starts.

“With this announcement, I don’t want to hear that nothing has been done for the next two weeks, or receive complaints that the lift broke down again after Ramadan or after (Hari) Raya.

“I will not accept that. So, by next week, I want a report on whether the repairs are in progress or not,” he said.

Meanwhile, Anwar also asked the state governments and local authorities to ensure that the rental rates charged at PPRs were reasonable.

“If the rent is too high, maybe we can lower it,” he said.

“As the government has spent money on providing the housing, the residents must know that the rent must be paid.

“Maybe we can discuss, we can negotiate a little (to lower the rent) but I want to stress that the rent must be paid. If we want to live comfortably, each of us must do our part.’