S’porean Offers Bukit Batok BTO To Stranded M’sian Workers As Free Lodging, Awaits HDB Approval

Man Puts Bukit Batok BTO Hacking Works On Hold So Malaysian Workers Can Stay There Temporarily

Getting your own place to live in is a blissful dream for many Singaporean couples.

One couple, however, decided to put their dreams on hold to help others in need. In this case, they’re offering their Bukit Batok built-to-order (BTO) flat to Malaysian workers who need shelter amid Covid-19-related border controls.

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Though renovations are incomplete, they’re hoping that having such a space at all will suffice.

Man put renovations on hold so space will be available immediately

Mr Ibrahim and his family had waited 3.5 to 4 years to acquire the BTO, and were dearly looking forward to moving into their new home.

However, after hearing about the plight of Malaysian workers without a roof over their heads in Singapore after borders shut, they thought they could help.

Mr Ibrahim shared his intentions on Friday (20 Mar), in a Facebook post that has since garnered over 11,000 shares.

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Available until the order ends on 31 Mar, the bare unit does have electricity and water supply, so users can perform basic tasks.

Mr Ibrahim will even throw in a portable fan and lights if need be.

Will seek HDB approval to provide Bukit Batok BTO to workers

In a follow-up comment, Mr Ibrahim acknowledged that he is unsure if offering his BTO this way goes against any HDB rules.

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An initial attempt to seek clarification failed, but he intends to try again on Monday (23 Mar). If HDB rejects his appeal, he will have to retract his offer to comply with the law.

Regardless of the outcome, many netizens reacted positively to Mr Ibrahim’s post, commending him for his generosity.

Some even asked if they could chip in by providing necessities like food and mattresses to the workers who will stay in the flat.

Singaporeans really are more generous than they may appear sometimes.

Moving generosity amidst uncertain times

While the Covid-19 situation has incited some frustration among people, kind gestures like these reassure us that we will get through these challenging times.

Giving up your dream home for others, albeit temporarily, must be a tough sacrifice to make.

Whether it can come true or not, Mr Ibrahim and his family certainly deserve high praise for their sincere offer.

Featured image adapted from Facebook and Facebook.