By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, March 1: The Sarawak government is proposing to build 20,000 affordable houses under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), a significant increase from the fewer than 2,000 units constructed under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
Sarawak’s Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, revealed that the proposal comes in response to a waiting list of 15,000 applicants for affordable housing in the State.
He emphasised that this initiative was not a political promise but a recommendation from Sarawak’s Economic Planning Unit (EPU) and experts who assessed the financial capability and housing needs of Sarawak.
“Previously, only 2,000 houses were built in five years because there was no money. Now, under the 13th Malaysia Plan, they propose 20,000 units because there is funding and a clear need,” he said when speaking during Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) 2025 Chinese New Year Media Night held at Theatre Hotel last night (Feb 28).
Dr Sim highlighted that the proposal has yet to go through the Sarawak cabinet for approval, but if implemented, it would significantly address Sarawak’s affordable housing demand.
He reassured that with continued governance, the welfare of Sarawakians would be well taken care of. – DayakDaily
