New Home Brings Relief to Disabled Couple in Kiulu

18 June 2025

KIULU: A couple with disabilities from Kampung Tinompok Pukak can now look forward to a more independent and dignified life after receiving a new home under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Housing Programme.

Hendary @ Hendary Felik Lapik, 51, who is non-verbal and uses a prosthetic leg, received the keys to his new house from Kiulu Assemblyman, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, during a modest handover ceremony held last Friday.

Situated on family-owned land beside a paddy field and close to a river, the house offers Hendary and his family not only accessibility but also a serene and safe environment.

Hendary lives with his wife, who also has a speech impairment, and their two young daughters, aged two and five. Prior to this, they resided in a shared household with extended family members.

According to his brother, Bonnyface Felik Lapik, who also serves as the Chairman of the Village Development and Security Committee for Kampung Bolotikon, the new home marks a significant turning point for the couple and their children.

“This gives them the space to live independently, while remaining close enough for family to offer support when needed,” said Bonnyface.

“It will help them manage better as a family and give the children more room to grow.”

He added that family members had assisted in submitting the application for the SMJ housing scheme.

Hendary contributes to the household income through small-scale village work. During the handover, he conveyed his appreciation through gestures, expressing heartfelt thanks to the assemblyman and the government.

He also invited several friends with disabilities to attend the occasion, wishing to share the special moment with them.

Joniston emphasised that the SMJ Housing Programme reflects the Sabah State Government’s continued commitment to improving the quality of life for rural communities, particularly those facing economic hardship or physical challenges.

“We are determined to ensure that individuals with diverse needs, especially persons with disabilities, are not left behind.

“A home like this can significantly transform day-to-day life,” he said.

Joniston further revealed that more SMJ homes are planned for construction in the Kiulu constituency to meet the growing demand for proper housing among underprivileged families.

To date, a total of 120 SMJ homes have been built in Kiulu under the Sabah Maju Jaya development blueprint, underscoring the state’s commitment to inclusive, community-driven rural development.