Rehda Institute launches updated property development handbook to reflect evolving industry practices

PETALING JAYA (June 27): Rehda Institute has launched the second edition of its Property Development Handbook, an updated industry reference incorporating the latest regulatory, sustainability and digitalisation developments to help developers, consultants, regulators and academics navigate Malaysia's increasingly complex property development landscape. Rehda Institute is the research and training arm of the Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association (Rehda) Malaysia.

The handbook, published with the support of publication patron Sime Darby Property Bhd (KL:SIMEPROP), was developed with contributions from government agencies, local authorities, professional bodies, academic institutions and industry practitioners. It provides practical guidance on regulatory approvals, land matters, development implementation, legal compliance and industry best practices.

Officiating the launch on Saturday, Ministry of Housing and Local Government deputy secretary general (housing and community well-being) Zulkeflee Sulaiman said the publication comes at a timely juncture as Malaysia continues to strengthen its housing and property development ecosystem.

"Housing development is not merely about constructing buildings, but about building sustainable, inclusive and conducive communities for all Malaysians," said Zulkeflee, adding that the handbook would support a more efficient and transparent property development ecosystem.

Meanwhile, Rehda Institute chairman Datuk Jeffrey Ng Tiong Lip said the handbook was updated to reflect significant changes in the industry since the first edition that was published over a decade ago. This includes evolving legislation, planning requirements, sustainability standards, digitalisation initiatives and changing market expectations.

"This publication is much more than a revised edition. It is a practical guide that captures end-to-end development processes and reflects the collective knowledge and experience of industry stakeholders," said Ng.

He added, "We hope this handbook will serve as a valuable reference for both industry practitioners and professionals seeking a better understanding of property development in Malaysia."

Looking ahead, he said Rehda Institute has completed another research publication, Housing for All: Co-Creating a Needs-Driven Framework, which will be launched during the upcoming Regional Housing Conference 2026 on July 29.

The conference will bring together industry stakeholders to discuss emerging trends and challenges in housing and urban development. Topics will include the application of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in city planning, transit-oriented development, housing-led urban regeneration, land use planning and international best practices, while providing a platform for industry collaboration and policy dialogue.

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