KOTA KINABALU: The dream of a family to own a house finally came true after an NGO, Habitat For Humanity (HFH) Malaysia, chose 41-year-old Penjamin Ogihad’s family from Kampung Kokol as their destination project for 21 in Sabah.
Malaysia HFH president for Sabah, Joanna Kitingan, said the family had been chosen based on the application received and analysed before a decision was made.
“Penjamin’s family had been chosen having fulfilled the criterion which amongst others are their surroundings and needs, besides their income being lesser than what they actually require,” said Joanna.
According to her, HFH which was established seven years ago in Sabah, was this time supported by 22 students from Kwansei Gakuin University of Japan who were accompanied by Professor Dr Imai Ichiro to build the RM12,000 house with a built-up area of 600 square feet.
“They came as Global Village Eco Habitat volunteers with the intention to help in building houses for needy families at every places they visited,” she said.
Joanna also said that the students will be in the country for 12 days starting yesterday to assist in the construction of the house before they leave for home on March 2.
The students have neither knowledge nor experience in building a house.
Joanna explained that the house assistance project was in a form of loan without interest which the owner must pay back between RM100 and RM150 monthly between seven to 10 years.
Meanwhile, Penjamin’s wife Doree Gukin, 40, felt elated after being informed that their family would have their own comfortable house.
“I thank HFH for giving this opportunity to us, so we don’t need to live in our old house any more,” said Penjamin who earns a living as a farmer.
Also present were Sabah HFH Malaysia vice president Chris Lean, Allen Tang and other members.