Lately, our housing minister has been officiating at launches of housing projects more and more frequently. And it comes as no big surprise when he seems to be favouring developers.

When Ong Ka Ting was made minister, he started to make some noises that we thought would signal an official position that would lean towards helping house buyers for a change - you know, the poor and distressed souls who have been exploited by the rich and powerful?

The lists of grievances and complaints are so well-known and well-documented in the local press that it would be just too boring for me to repeat them here.

Poor house owners were hoping for a refreshing change that would indicate that MCA, as a pro-business party and with strong ties to developers, would at last have a future and sincere leader who has the poor people's interests at heart.

Alas, we read in the local press today that Ong is of the opinion that it is still best for house buyers to go to court to seek compensation for late delivery by developers. At present, it is automatic for buyers to pay late payment charges to developers if progress payments are delayed.

The rules of the game are stacked against the buyers and we had expected Ong to change the rules to level the playing field.

I suppose it is just too much to ask of him as an MCA leader when he has to pander to the rich and powerful to solicit their support in his pursuit of his ambition to become party president. There are just too many rich and powerful developers and businessmen/cronies linked to MCA and Umno whom Ong cannot afford to offend.

Please think again, Mr Ong. The big boss is watching you. The people are, too.