Developers urged to provide quality housing for M40, B40

KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 11): Property developers have been urged to equally address the need for quality housing for the Middle 40 (M40) and Bottom 40 (B40) groups as the country moves towards being a developed, high-income nation.

Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Senator Datuk Raja Kamarul Bahrin Shah (pictured) said developers who have made huge fortunes should work together with the Government to give attention to the less fortunate, including treating them with dignity and sensitivity in building their living habitat.

“It is no coincidence and not by chance that crimes are more frequent in low-cost and affordable housing categories.

“We must realise that depression and social deprivation are a huge contribution to these incidences. I hope these pressing issues will continue to be highlighted when delivering the quality of the houses, not just on the quantity,” he said at a property event.

Raja Kamarul Bahrin also said as 80 per cent of the Malaysian population is expected to live in urban areas by 2030 (up from the current 75 per cent), his Ministry hopes that the recently launched National Community Policy would empower residents to better manage their own residential areas.

“As this is also a concern to all parties in the property development industry, we all need to play our roles in contributing towards creating sustainable cities and townships,” he added.