Forum: Give seniors more flexible options under Vers

I refer to the article “Vers must address varied needs of HDB flat owners: Experts” (Aug 11).

I couldn’t agree more with Professor Chua Beng Huat who was quoted as saying that a “one-size-fits-all” compensation policy may not work.

I have been living in my 58-year-old flat in Toa Payoh North since birth and I’m turning 56 this year.

As my estate was built in the mid-60s, I’m likely to be affected by the Voluntary Early Redevelopment Scheme (Vers) in the coming decade. Although my default choice will be to stay on, I shall be prepared if residents vote otherwise.

Like many senior singles or couples living without children, I hope I’m not financially impacted if Vers were to happen.

Ideally, there should be an option for affected residents living in a three-room flat to choose a two-room flexi flat on a short lease of 30 years or less.

This makes financial sense because the compensation from HDB for the remaining lease of 29 years could be sufficient to pay for a new flat on short-term lease and hence require no cash outlay.

The last thing retired senior residents need is financial stress over a flat that they have been living in for years.

Tan Swan Hwee