KOTA KINABALU: The State Government will build 3,000 units of Rumah Mesra SMJ  next year to assist families and individuals who do not yet own a home, said Chief  Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.  

"Previously, we have allocated 20 SMJ houses each for all the 73 state constituencies  throughout Sabah, but beginning next year, we will double this amount," he said. 

The Chief Minister also reiterated that the State Government had formally requested the  Federal Government to allocate 5,000 units of affordable housing under the PPR  scheme (Program Perumahan Rakyat) for Sabah. 

"This allocation is a critical step toward 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," he said at the Sabah  Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (SHAREDA) Nite 2024, held at the 

Magellan Sutera Harbour Resort tonight. 

Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe  delivered his speech. 

Hajiji urged all developers to collaborate and 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, adding that a collaboration  between the Government and the private sector demonstrates a powerful synergy to create sustainable communities that cater to the needs of all income levels.  

"As we navigate these changes, it is essential to recognise the complementary roles we  all play. The Government is dedicated to laying down the infrastructure and supportive  policies necessary for the industry's success. 

"In turn, I urge you to align your projects with our broader sustainable and responsible  development vision. Together, we can create housing solutions that not only address  current market demands but also enhance the quality of life for our residents. Your innovation and responsiveness are crucial in this partnership," he said. 

Moving forward, Hajiji 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 said. 

He said SHAREDA has done well under the stewardship of President Datuk Sr Chua  Soon Ping, but the Chief Minister also want to see consistency in SHAREDA's good  efforts, especially in synergising their resources and forging partnerships to transform  vision into reality.  

"This is indeed a noble aim. And as your theme - A Night of Synergy suggested, it is  imperative that you work collaboratively to create a future where every Sabahan has a  place to call home, a future where communities thrive comfortably and harmoniously,"  he said. 

Ends