Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) is advancing its efforts to address the housing supply and demand mismatch by developing a big data analytics platform. This platform will be accessible to private developers, enabling them to base feasibility studies on actual data and market demand rather than assumptions, as part of the ministry's digital transformation initiative aimed at creating a sustainable housing market.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Nga Kor Ming highlighted that the platform would allow developers to subscribe and utilize data-driven insights for their housing schemes. This initiative is expected to rectify the mismatch between the types of homes being developed and the actual market requirements, as the current issue in Malaysia's housing sector is not a shortage of supply but rather a disconnect between available housing products and buyers' needs.
The ministry's efforts are complemented by the Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJKP), which has facilitated more than 95,000 homebuyers in securing financing. Furthermore, KPKT is examining the housing needs of the M40 income group to ensure that future housing projects align more closely with market demand.
Additionally, KPKT has set up a special task force led by the ministry's secretary-general to review and streamline compliance costs imposed on developers, aiming to enhance project viability while maintaining safety and regulatory standards. Nga emphasized the importance of reducing unnecessary compliance costs to support commercially viable projects without compromising public interest.
In terms of urban development, Nga proposed the potential for transit-oriented developments (TOD) to be designed without parking bays in areas with robust public transport networks, which could reduce construction costs and enhance housing affordability. However, he noted that such an approach would be contingent on the advancement of the country's public transport infrastructure.
The AREC Forum 2026, titled "Rethinking Real Estate: Housing With Hearts," where these announcements were made, was moderated by the executive director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif.