KUALA LUMPUR: There should be urgency in developing affordable housing, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said there is no reason to delay such projects when the proper documentation and submissions have been made.
“I had the experience where the groundbreaking ceremony of affordable housing in Kuala Lumpur took place within 45 days after the joint development agreement was signed.
“This showed how efficiency can make things possible. If it can be done in KL, I'm sure Penang can, too,” he said on Tuesday (Dec 10), referring to the upcoming Rumah Bakat Baru Madani affordable housing development in Penang.
Speaking at the signing ceremony of the joint development agreement for the project, he described it as “meaningful and close to my heart”.
Anwar said he would raise it with the Cabinet for further action, as it involves not only the state government but also several federal agencies.
“I have a personal interest in this affordable housing project because I was born and bred in Penang.
“There is urgency when it comes to building affordable homes. Let's make it happen, and fast,” he added.
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Rumah Bakat Baru Madan, the largest affordable housing development project in Malaysia’s history, will be a milestone for the country's affordable housing sector with more than 35,000 units to be built for the B40 and M40 groups.
It is a joint project of the Penang Development Corporation (PDC), its subsidiary PDC Properties, and SkyWorld Development Berhad.
Combined with existing units, the project will be a cornerstone of the Federal Government's 12th Malaysia Plan commitment to deliver 500,000 affordable homes by next year.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, PDC CEO Datuk Aziz Bakar, PDC Properties CEO Ismail Ishak, SkyWorld Development executive chairman Datuk Seri Ng Thien Ping and its chief executive officer Lee Chee Seng witnessed the ceremony.
Located on two prime plots of land – 13ha in Seberang Jaya and 65.3ha in Batu Kawan – the project will deliver over 30,000 affordable housing and Rumah Bakat Baru Madani units, priced between RM225,000 and RM420,000.
Both Seberang Jaya and Batu Kawan play crucial roles in Penang's economic landscape, particularly within the thriving electrical and electronics (E&E) sector.
Seberang Jaya has evolved into a bustling township with strategic connectivity and robust infrastructure.
It is considered a key component of the rapidly growing Seberang Perai region, which has seen a 27% population increase since 2008, fuelling demand for housing and community amenities.
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Batu Kawan, often dubbed Penang’s emerging "Silicon Valley of the East", has been identified as the state’s next major growth hub.
In his speech, Chow highlighted the significance of this development within the state’s Penang2030 vision, which prioritises liveability and socioeconomic growth.
The new housing scheme addresses demand for affordable homes driven by the state’s industrial economy, which continues to attract domestic and international talent.
“The Rumah Bakat Baru Madani concept is a game-changer. It offers opportunities for both Penangites and non-Penangites working here to own homes, ensuring inclusivity and equity in housing,” Chow added.
Nga said the project aligned with the Madani pillar of harmony.
He lauded SkyWorld Development’s significant role in this initiative, noting its track record, including winning two consecutive FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence gold awards in the Affordable Housing category.
“This collaboration demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in realising the government's vision.
“It is a model for other states to emulate, ensuring quality affordable housing remains a priority,” Nga added.
