(Kuala Lumpur, Tuesday): We call on the Malaysian Government to go the whole hog with shaking up the processing mechanism on strata titles and the management of highrise flats, apartments and condominiums. It should prepare for Vision 2020.

Part of the speech by Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong at the dialogue session with residents in Taman Indah, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, organized by the Residents' Committee on 26 September, 2005.

For decades, the problem of strata titles for many flat dwellers has remained unresolved. Hence, the Government should go the whole hog with shaking up the processing mechanism on strata titles at all stages. An efficient mechanism will rid flat dwellers of their headache. Having obtained their titles, residents should seek assistance from one of the 144 local governments to manage their buildings, otherwise they will continue to face difficulties.

Since last week, about 200 residents in Taman Indah have got their titles. We hope their lawyers will sort things out for them. Nevertheless, many more flat dwellers are waiting for their titles in the country.

Strata title is under the Ministry of Natural Resources. Besides setting up Strata Title Department in land offices at various levels, it should use its annual allocation of nearly RM80 million effectively, to upgrade management and amend land code. It must improve efficiency and quality, consistent with the National Development Policy.

The Ministry monitors land offices at district, state and federal levels. It deals with management, finance, service and appointment of staff members in these offices. It aims to make them orderly and efficient.