Minister of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam has said that regular rent payment is essential for the sustainability of government social housing projects. He made the statement during the handover ceremony of the apartments developed by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) in Hulhumale' Phase 2.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Aslam said the government aims to provide housing to all citizens. He, however, expressed concern that some of the recipients of the flats from the various housing projects implemented by various governments are not making regular monthly payments. He said monthly rent payment is essential for sustainable housing projects.
In conclusion, Minister Aslam said the government had built relatively few flats 30 years ago and the government could bear the expense even if 40% of the people did not pay regularly. However, he said issues will emerge in the future if thousands of flats are being built and 40% of the people do not pay their rent regularly.
During the ceremony, Minister Aslam handed the keys to employees of MACL who received flats from the Aero Residence.