CAP urges government to end waste, utilise idle buildings nationwide

GEORGE TOWN – The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the government to fully utilise all existing buildings to prevent the wastage of public funds and foster efficient national asset management.

CAP President Mohideen Abdul Kader said that abandoning government-owned buildings, whether federal or state, not only creates a negative public perception but also leads to financial losses for the nation.

The staff quarters building of the Department of Fisheries in Batu Maung, which was planned to be demolished for a new project, remains abandoned to this day without any action taken.

He pointed to the Federal Court building, a heritage site in Kuala Lumpur's city centre, as an example of a structure reportedly left idle, detracting from the capital's landscape.

"Last December, the state government office complex on Jalan Changkat Jong, Teluk Intan, Perak, which once housed various public services, was also reported as vacant," he said.

"In Penang, the Batu Ferringhi Public Market Complex, equipped with a food court, multi-purpose hall, badminton courts and other facilities since August 2020, also stands abandoned," Mohideen said in a statement today.

Mohideen argued that these buildings require redevelopment or repurposing to halt further deterioration and avoid escalating repair costs.

"If neglected, future repair expenses could be considerably higher. Therefore, the government must conduct assessments to determine if these buildings can be reused or if demolition and rebuilding are necessary.

"This approach will not only lower costs but also serve the community," he said.

He also observed that the Fisheries Department staff quarters in Batu Maung, Penang, slated for demolition for a new project, remain unused without any action.

Mohideen claimed that all idle buildings and vacant spaces deserve proper attention for environmental sustainability, enhanced resource efficiency and community progress.

"This issue is separate from abandoned buildings resulting from stalled projects. Even if the number is small, the impact on the country is significant due to the substantial public funds involved.

"Those responsible for managing these buildings must be accountable and ensure they are not left idle and wasted," Mohideen affirmed.

He added that prioritising monitoring efforts is essential to guarantee all government-owned buildings are used to their maximum capacity for the welfare of the people and the nation.