| Izah Azahari |
THE issue of abandoned buildings across the country was yesterday addressed at the 14th Legislative Council (LegCo) session.
LegCo member YB Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman queried about the auditing process for abandoned government buildings, whether data is collected on these buildings, and why they are left vacant – given they are valuable government assets.
She cited a primary school in Kampong Labi, sandwiched between abandoned residential buildings covered with overgrown weeds; as well as an office building located in front of the school with roles of thick wire left in its front yard. This poses health and safety concerns, she said, adding that they might also serve as a space for anti-social activities.
YB Siti Rozaimeriyanty also pointed out that if these buildings were open for leasing to the private sector, it would increase government revenue.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) YB Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud responded by saying that the issue had already come to the attention of the PMO, and that the relevant authorities (such as the Department of Audit) had submitted its report to the relevant agencies, departments or ministries for action to be taken.
YB Siti Rozaimeriyanty also suggested that the ‘Riayah Wa Mahabbah’ programme be introduced to the other districts to help students in examinations. The programme for Year 6 students is an ongoing one at Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College.
The minister welcomed the suggestion to have the Riayah Wa Mahabbah programme introduced in the other districts, and hoped to hear detailed proposals.