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

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming emphasized the need for stronger global cooperation to tackle the worldwide housing crisis, which affects around 3.4 billion people. The minister, who presides over 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 invest an unaffordable amount of their income in rent.

At the opening of the Global Observance of World Cities Day 2026 in Fuzhou, China, Nga stressed that governments must ensure affordable, safe, well-connected housing with access to essential public amenities.

Addressing the crisis requires more than merely constructing additional homes; it demands addressing rising housing costs and alleviating social inequalities. Nga urged collaboration between governments, international organizations, and the private sector in affordable housing, green development, and sustainable urban regeneration.

Malaysia's experience was shared, with the country aiming to deliver one million affordable homes between 2026 and 2035 and aspire to become among the top ten countries for home ownership by 2035. Key initiatives include the Malaysia Madani vision, housing reform agenda, and the National Housing Policy 2026-2035. He also mentioned the RM60 billion Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJKP) to facilitate home financing for 150,000 individuals lacking conventional income documentation.

Nga stressed that housing is the foundation of human development, impacting children's ambitions, parents' well-being, and seniors' dignity. He argued that a city's success should be measured by the liveability of its neighborhoods, public spaces, environmental protection, and opportunities for residents. Malaysia is promoting transit-oriented development and climate-resilient urban renewal to foster sustainable communities.

Nga concluded by urging world leaders to convert international commitments into tangible improvements in people's lives.