In a significant move to address the discrepancies in affordable housing prices across different regions, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has embarked on implementing a comprehensive mapping of affordable housing prices under the National Housing Policy. This innovative approach seeks to establish a more equitable and realistic pricing model for affordable homes, tailored to the economic conditions of each state and locality.
Nga Kor Ming, the minister overseeing this initiative, highlighted the essential need for this mapping, drawing attention to the current policy’s shortcomings. The same affordable housing price cap of RM300,000, regardless of the vast economic differences between regions such as Kelantan and Kuala Lumpur, has proven to be impractical. This year, KPKT aims to rectify this by introducing a scientific method for setting house prices, leveraging data from the Household Income and Basic Amenities Survey Report 2022.
The minister also seized the opportunity to address food wastage concerns, especially during the Ramadan period. With staggering statistics from the previous year showing 86,177.28 metric tonnes of food waste, Nga urges Malaysians to practice mindfulness and reduce food wastage. Efforts to decrease food waste during Ramadan have shown progress, with a reduction from 5.2% in 2022 to 3.7%.
Further, KPKT is set to enhance the welfare of petty traders through the upcoming launch of MyKIOSK 2.0 after the Aidilfitri celebration. This initiative, aimed at uplifting around 20,000 petty traders, offers uniform business spaces in strategic locations to boost their economic presence.
Additionally, the ministry is working on amending the Local Government Act 1976 (Act 171) to strengthen enforcement capabilities of Local Authorities (PBT) and address public nuisances more effectively. This includes a review of the currently low fine rates, with proposed amendments involving collaboration with state governments and the Attorney General’s Chambers.
In the realm of international aid, Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin shared plans to increase assistance to Gaza through Ops Ihsan, including the delivery of 100,000 food packs. The strategy to utilize sea vessels for aid delivery marks a significant shift from the current reliance on aircraft.
As Malaysia navigates these various initiatives, the focus on equitable housing pricing, reduction of food waste, support for petty traders, and international aid efforts reflects the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of its citizens and contributing positively to global humanitarian causes.
