GEORGE TOWN: The family here that has been living in their old Proton since their home burned down eight months ago have been given a People's Housing Project (PPR) unit plus monthly financial assistance, Malaysiakini reported today.

Security guard S Ganesh, 34, and his family (wife and three young children) made the news earlier this week when their plight was highlighted in numerous reports.

“I tried looking for a place to rent but the rental for even a small flat unit is high, about RM800. I can’t afford it. My salary is only RM1,200,” Ganesh told the media then.

State Environment and Welfare exco Phee Boon Poh clarified with Malaysiakini that the Penang government actually contacted the family back in April when their home at Lebuh Carnavon was burned down.

"A temporary shelter at the Caring Community Complex was offered by the Penang Welfare Department and Penang Land and District Office.

"It was, however, understood that the move was unsuccessful as the family had intended to stay with relatives at Air Itam on the same night. Their family did not engage with the state government since then until the news about them went viral," Phee explained.

Meanwhile, Ganesh and his family’s troubles also got the attention of preacher and helper of the needy, Ebit Lew, who rented a three-bedroom home for them.

"I will pay rent for a month while they wait for a PPR unit. They have applied twice since their house was burnt down.

"But if they want to continue living there, I will also happily pay for their rent," Lew said in his Facebook posting.

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