INCENTIVISING the payment of assessment taxes has resulted in the reduction of such arrears for Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ).
At the council’s fullboard meeting, MPAJ president Dr Ani Ahmad (pic) said its revenue department was extending the council’s “Jom Bayar Cukai Taksiran 2023” campaign and lucky draw promotion.
“Programmes and activities for the community will be conducted throughout this month.
“We are extending the lucky draw programme for a second term, from July to December.”
She said payments were facilitated through Icomm MPAJ on the local council’s website and mobile app.
The council also distributed leaflets to encourage payment of assessment tax.
Ani said collection of assessment tax between Jan 1 and May 31 this year saw an increase of RM560,000 while the assessment arrears were at RM5.16mil.
“Overall, there was a decrease in assessment arrears this year compared to RM5.7mil in arrears in 2022,” she added.
From Jan 1 to May 31 this year, MPAJ collected RM40.5mil in assessment tax with arrears amounting to RM8.3mil.
“Last year, many residents paid their assessment arrears because we carried out enforcement operations and there was more awareness thanks to the lucky draw programme,” said Ani.
MPAJ later announced the lucky draw winners.
Prizes included two motorcycles, a smart TV, washing machine and an automated cooker.
After the fullboard meeting, Ani launched the MPAJ endowment programme to finance activities focusing on the communities’ welfare and well-being, including fulfilling United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The endowment fund will enable MPAJ to fund the upkeep and maintenance of drains and trees or infrastructure projects such as slope repairs.
It will also help the needy and provide food and shelter for stray animals.
Through the fund, health equipment will also be installed in public parks and a food bank will be established.
Ani said the endowment was based on voluntary contributions.
Payment can be made by cash at the MPAJ revenue counter, online, credit or debit card, ewallet or using the Icomm MPAJ payment channel.
For MPAJ staff, contributions can be made through salary deductions.
