PM Urges States To Revamp Outdated Low-Cost Housing Policies
Date：2014/11/07
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PETALING JAYA -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has urged all states to revamp outdated policies related to low-cost housing and come up with an inclusive and transparent approach for an equal distribution system.
This, he said, would ensure that low-cost housing is available where it is needed, and is not constructed where the demand is dubious.
"The importance we assign to housing policy reflects its unique position in society: not just as a for-profit business venture, but also as a sector with a special responsibility.
"Through low-cost, low-medium cost and medium-cost housing policies, together with the Bumiputera quota and discounts, housing is a key component ?of our broad development agenda," he said in his speech when opening Wisma REHDA here Wednesday.
He also gave his assurance that the government would ?undertake policies that continue to ensure the positive growth of the housing and property market.
"We want a steady growth, we don't want a bubble economy. ?A bubble economy is a very short-target policy and we all know what happens to bubbles.
"What we need is a steady growth for the industry, and at the same time, ensuring that the housing industry will be a viable and reasonable profitable business proposition for the majority of those who undertake, and are participating, in the sector," he said.
He expressed hope the government, along with the industry players, could find the best amicable solutions on long-standing issues, from the lack of affordable homes to unsold Bumiputera quotas.
Najib also called on the private sector, in particular the Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association Malaysia (REHDA), to continue giving the government valuable feedback to resolve the industry's issues and challenges.
Over the past five years, he said, the housing and property industry has been a critical component of a new economic model with the rise of modern mixed developments, integrated townships, green developments and skyscrapers throughout the country.
"We want all Malaysians to have access to adequate, quality and affordable homes -- homes that are equipped with all the proper facilities and amenities for sustainable living," he added.
At the event, the Prime Minister was presented the REHDA Master Developer Award for his commitment and selfless dedication towards the industry.
Also present were Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili and REHDA President Datuk Seri Fateh Iskandar Mohamed Mansor.