KUCHING: The state government has cracked the whip in light of the long-delayed Treetops Apartments project development in Bintulu.
In announcing interim regulatory measures, Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang, said the ministry remains committed to protecting the interests of purchasers and is closely monitoring the progress of the project developed by Twin Revenue Sdn Bhd.
In a statement on Tuesday he said it has decided to refrain from issuing any new developer’s licences pending satisfactory project progress and compliance with regulatory requirements.
The ministry said it would also review sales permits and, where appropriate, suspend certain sales permits issued for projects associated with the same directorship (of the developer) in accordance with relevant statutory provisions.
These measures are being taken to safeguard prospective homebuyers, it added.
“The government of Sarawak remains committed to ensuring that housing projects are implemented and completed in an orderly and responsible manner, while protecting the interests of homebuyers,” stressed Tiang.
He said a coordination meeting, chaired by him on May 8, involving the developer and relevant agencies, was held to review the Treetops Apartments project’s current status and resolve outstanding technical and infrastructure matters affecting its completion.
Based on the latest update presented during the meeting, the remaining works required for the issuance of the Occupation Permit (OP) for Blocks A and B are currently targeted for completion by the third quarter of 2026, subject to no unforeseen circumstances.
However, he noted that delays in approvals, technical processes, or external requirements beyond the developer’s control could extend the OP issuance timeline into the fourth quarter of 2026.
“The ministry appreciates the cooperation extended by all relevant authorities and stakeholders in working towards practical solutions to support the timely completion of the project,” he said.
The ministry also acknowledged progress made in resolving issues related to the project’s 33kV substation infrastructure requirement.
“In particular, the approval granted by Sarawak Energy Berhad for the project to tap off from the Jepak Substation represents a significant step towards facilitating completion of the project,” he said.
On the interim measures, Tiang explained that the ministry’s actions were undertaken pursuant to the Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Ordinance 2013 and the Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Regulations 2014, which regulate the licensing of housing developers, the issuance of advertising and sales permits, and the protection of purchasers.
“The requirement for developers to obtain valid licences and advertisement and sales permits, and the discretion of the relevant authority to impose conditions or take regulatory action, are exercised to ensure that housing developments are carried out in a manner that safeguards the interests of purchasers and the public,” he said.
