About 40 people claimed to have been cheated by irresponsible parties over the purchase of People's Housing Project (PPR) units, said Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Minister Noh Omar.

He said the victims claimed to have purchased application forms from third parties at prices ranging from RM5,000 to RM10,000 each, with losses amounting to RM250,000.

“These people have come to see the KPKT (Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Ministry) to lodge their complaints.

"They said that the persons who sold the forms had promised they would be able to purchase the PPR houses as they (scammers) claimed that they knew people from higher up or dropped Umno's name.

“The KPKT has also conducted (background) checks on these complainants. Most of them are not eligible to apply as they do not meet the requirements, and some are not listed because they have not submitted (certain) forms to the ministry,” he told reporters after officiating the Natural Heritage Sustainability Programme at Kampung Sungai Sireh in Tanjong Karang today.

Noh said in fact, all forms for the government housing assistance schemes are given free of charge.

“The stringent screening process have been implemented so that only those who are eligible would receive the assistance. The KPKT has also cross-checked with the Inland Revenue Board on all applicants to find out their financial status,” he said.

Noh also reminded the public not to fall for cheap prices and attractive offers promised by certain parties without checking.

He believed that there were more victims out there who did not come forward to lodge reports.

“I hope those who feel that they have been cheated will come forward and we will help to the best of our ability,” Noh added.

- Bernama