Nga Kor Ming urges global cooperation on housing crisis, cites 3.4 billion affected

On October 31, Malaysia's Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming emphasized the urgent need for global cooperation to tackle the housing crisis, which affects roughly 3.4 billion people worldwide. The minister, who also serves as the president of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Assembly, highlighted that over 1.16 billion individuals reside in informal settlements, including slums, and that 44% of urban renters spend an unsustainable portion of their income on rent.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Global Observance of World Cities Day 2026 in Fuzhou, China, Nga stressed that governments must ensure affordable, safe housing that is well-connected to public transportation and job opportunities and supported by essential public amenities.

Addressing the crisis, he pointed out that building more homes alone is insufficient, as escalating housing costs exacerbate social inequalities and strain households. Nga advocated for stronger partnerships among governments, international organizations, and the private sector to advance affordable housing, green development, and sustainable urban regeneration.

Malaysia's experience was shared, with the government aiming to construct one million affordable homes between 2026 and 2035 and aiming to become one of the top 10 countries for home ownership by 2035. Key initiatives outlined include Malaysia's Madani vision, housing reform agenda, the National Housing Policy 2026-2035, and the RM60 billion Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJKP) designed to assist 150,000 individuals lacking conventional income documentation.

Nga underscored that housing is foundational for human development, impacting children's ambitions, parental well-being, and senior citizens' dignity. He asserted that a city's success should be measured by the livability of its neighborhoods, public spaces, environmental protection, and opportunities for residents rather than just its skyline or construction scale.

He argued that housing must accommodate needs across all life stages, from early childhood to elderly care, and that urban regeneration should promote climate action through energy-efficient technologies and expanded green spaces. Malaysia is promoting transit-oriented development and climate-resilient urban renewal as part of its strategy to foster sustainable communities.

Nga concluded by stressing that policy without execution remains mere intention, and vision without action remains a dream, urging world leaders to translate commitments into tangible improvements for people's lives.