KOTA KINABALU: Another 3,000 homes for the hardcore poor and lower-income families will be built next year in Sabah, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The Chief Minister said these Rumah Mesra SMJ affordable homes are meant to help families and individuals yet to own a home.
Previously, the state government allocated 20 SMJ houses each for all the 73 state constituencies in Sabah, he said.
“But beginning next year, we will double this number,” he said during the Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers Association Nite 2024 at a hotel here on Saturday.
His speech was delivered by state Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
Hajiji reiterated that the state government had formally requested the Federal Government to allocate 5,000 units of affordable housing under the People’s Housing Project (PPR) scheme for Sabah.
“This allocation is a critical step towards addressing the housing needs of our communities, particularly for those in the lower-income groups.
“The proposed distribution of these 5,000 units includes 1,000 units each for Tawau and Sandakan and 3,000 for Kota Kinabalu.
“This is our commitment to ensure that every qualified Sabahan has access to affordable and quality housing,” Hajiji said.
Towards this end, he urged all developers to work together to ensure that housing solutions meet current demands and promote inclusivity and sustainability.
“The success of our initiatives relies on your innovation, commitment and willingness to adapt to the changing needs of our communities,” he said.
Moving forward, the Chief Minister said priority must be given to the sustainability of housing projects and the community’s well-being.
“I urge you to incorporate sustainable practices into your developments using eco-friendly materials, promoting energy efficiency and practising responsible land use.
“By committing to sustainability, we not only protect our natural resources but also enhance the liveability of our state for future generations,” he added.
