Strata building woes discussed

25/01/2008 The Star By Charles Fernandez

MORE than 300 representatives of 48 Residents' Associations and several developers and property managers attended a one-day seminar on Management of Strata Building held at the University College Sedaya International (UCSI) Taman Connaught campus in Cheras recently.

The seminar, which was launched by Bandar Tun Razak MP Datuk Tan Chai Ho, was jointly organised by the MCA Bandar Tun Razak Division and five residents' associations – those of Jalil Damai Apartment in Bukit Jalil, Cemara Apartment, Cendana Apartment, Bayu Tasik 1 Condo and Bayu Tasik 2 Condo.


Tan: 'I have received complaints from residents on deteriorating facilities and poor maintenance by the management company.'

The seminar, the first of its kind, was aimed at creating awareness of the importance of proper management and maintenance of the common property as well as to provide a platform for all parties concerned to discuss pertinent issues.

Participants were informed on the new guidelines embodied in the Building and Common Property (Maintenance and Management) Act 2007 that is aimed at raising professionalism and improving transparency.

Home Buyers Tribunal president Yong Yung Choy gave an overview of the legal framework on management of strata buildings while Ministry of Housing and Local Government National Housing Department (Maintenance Issue) assistant director Jeevasuthan George spoke on the practical difficulties involved.

Organising chairman Chew Yin Keen said the new Act would provide ideal solutions to the predicaments faced by residents.

“Good management of common property will create a good and conducive environment in the strata building,'' added Chew.

Tan, who is also Deputy Home Minister, said many owners of high-rise residential properties were still not aware of the importance of the Strata Titles Act and the Building and Common Property Act 2007.

“I have received complaints from residents on deteriorating facilities and poor maintenance by the management company. This seminar will help participants understand the regulations and how they help to resolve certain problems faced by both developers and purchasers,” added Tan, who noted that the agenda included a discussion on the importance of establishing a Joint Management Board (JMB) by the developer and residents in tackling such issues.