Sarawak to pilot new affordable housing model for M40

Sarawak plans to introduce a novel affordable housing model for the M40 income group, according to Premier Abang Johari Openg. The groundbreaking initiative aims to address the escalating issue of land scarcity and escalating prices, especially in urban centers. Speaking at a press conference today in Balingian, the premier revealed that pilot projects were set to be implemented in Kuching and a location near Samarahan.

"We are currently determining the design and cost of the residences, ensuring they remain within the financial reach of the M40 income group," Openg stated.

The model's development will be a collaborative effort among various state agencies, including the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation, the Housing Development Corporation, and the Bintulu Development Authority. Following the pilot projects, the state government will evaluate their effectiveness before potentially expanding the model to other urban areas such as Miri and Sibu.

In a separate development last year, DAP MP Oscar Ling had called on the government to construct affordable housing in Sibu as part of the 13th Malaysia Plan. Ling specifically highlighted the lack of such housing in his constituency, noting that the only existing project under the housing and local government ministry was located in Sibu Jaya but had since been left incomplete.