URA’s 30-year ‘trigger point’ to invoke redevelopment based on myth

URA’s 30-year ‘trigger point’ to invoke redevelopment based on myth

indepth

Updated:
  • The proposal to use a 30-year building age for redevelopment under the URA Bill is unsound.
  • Many buildings can last well beyond 30 years with proper maintenance, making age an unreliable indicator.
  • This approach risks unnecessary demolitions and financial burdens on homeowners without clear evidence of structural safety concerns.
Bridging borders: Malaysia, Taiwan explore synergies in industrial resilience, urban housing

Bridging borders: Malaysia, Taiwan explore synergies in industrial resilience, urban housing

news

Updated:
  • In Taoyuan, Taiwan, autonomous robots efficiently manage logistics in a smart warehouse.
  • A Malaysian delegation explored sustainable housing and advanced logistics models.
  • The visit highlighted the need for Malaysia to adopt high-tech, collaborative methods to remain competitive.
BNM keeps key interest rate at 2.75% as widely expected

BNM keeps key interest rate at 2.75% as widely expected

news

Updated:
  • Malaysia's central bank has kept the benchmark interest rate at 2.75% amid a resilient economy.
  • Economic growth is projected to moderate to 4%-4.5% this year, supported by domestic demand.
  • Inflation is expected to remain moderate due to easing global cost conditions.
Preferential withholding tax on REIT dividends likely to be renewed, says Kenanga

Preferential withholding tax on REIT dividends likely to be renewed, says Kenanga

news

Updated:
  • Kenanga Investment Bank suggests the preferential withholding tax on REIT dividends may be renewed.
  • The Malaysian REIT industry’s earnings are minimal compared to total tax revenues.
  • If the concession lapses, dividends received by investors will be subject to their respective tax brackets.
Mah Sing’s fully sold M Astra gets 89% QLASSIC score

Mah Sing’s fully sold M Astra gets 89% QLASSIC score

news

Updated:
  • Mah Sing Group Bhd completed M Astra in Setapak ahead of schedule, achieving a record QLASSIC score.
  • The project, with a GDV of RM618 million, features two blocks of serviced suites and 24 retail lots.
  • Mah Sing plans to launch new projects in 2026 focusing on market demand and sustainability.
HBA backs Hannah Yeoh’s transparency push on big projects, flags policy inconsistency over URA

HBA backs Hannah Yeoh’s transparency push on big projects, flags policy inconsistency over URA

news

Updated:
  • The National House Buyers Association Malaysia supports greater transparency in urban development.
  • They criticize the Urban Renewal Bill for undermining community rights and trust in governance.
  • HBA insists that urban renewal must prioritise legal certainty and accountability for sustainable progress.
Hartamas Real Estate partners UCAN Technologies to deploy AI and training in real estate

Hartamas Real Estate partners UCAN Technologies to deploy AI and training in real estate

news

Updated:
  • Hartamas Real Estate has signed an MOU with UCAN Technologies to adopt AI-driven solutions.
  • The partnership aims to enhance efficiency and agent productivity through pilot projects and training.
  • Both companies will leverage technology to create smarter workflows and improve business outcomes.
RM290m or up to RM13b? High Court to decide on Semantan Estate's mesne profit claim on May 19

RM290m or up to RM13b? High Court to decide on Semantan Estate's mesne profit claim on May 19

news

Updated:
  • The Seremban High Court will decide on May 19 regarding Semantan Estate's mesne profit claim.
  • Semantan Estate estimates its claim between RM3.1 billion and RM13.1 billion.
  • Compensation due to the government's long-term occupancy of the Duta Enclave.
ECRL fare structure to be finalised by year-end, says Loke

ECRL fare structure to be finalised by year-end, says Loke

news

Updated:
  • The fare structure for Malaysia's East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) will be finalised by year-end.
  • Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that Malaysia Rail Link is reviewing pricing..
  • The ECRL project, costing RM74.96 billion, is 90.81% complete and aims to reduce travel time significantly.
Housing ministry expands use of local technology to convert food waste into fertiliser

Housing ministry expands use of local technology to convert food waste into fertiliser

news

Updated:
  • The Ministry of Housing and Local Government will use local tech to turn food waste into fertiliser.
  • This initiative aims to tackle Malaysia's food waste issue, with over 8.3 million tonnes discarded yearly.
  • It supports recycling, agriculture, and a sustainable circular economy while reducing landfill reliance.
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