Kuala lumpur: The ASEAN-China Ministerial Roundtable Conference on Construction and Housing (ACMROCH) 2026 serves as an important platform for strengthening regional cooperation to address the challenges of urbanisation, housing, and sustainable urban development. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said ACMROCH 2026 strategically aligns with this global framework, by uniting the efforts of ASEAN, China, and the broader international partners, to ensure that regional urban development is in lockstep with UN-Habitat's mission.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nga Kor Ming emphasized the conference's theme, 'Sustainable Cities, Quality Housing, and Cohesive Communities,' which brings together 300 participants, including Ministers, senior government officials, and delegates from 11 ASEAN member states. The conference aims to achieve sustainability, quality housing, and cohesive communities through wisdom, innovation, and sustainability.

Nga highlighted three goals of AMROCH 2026: sustainability, which respects the environment and cares for the people; quality housing, ensuring safe and comfortable living spaces; and cohesive communities, fostering trust and a shared future. The event is structured around four interconnected priorities: advancing energy-efficient and climate-responsive housing, promoting value-driven housing and inclusive urban growth, strengthening resilient urban services and sustainable infrastructure, and fostering cohesive communities and liveable neighborhoods.

Nga also took the opportunity to note Malaysia's commitment to the New Urban Agenda as the current president of the UN-Habitat Assembly. He stated that Malaysia MADANI and the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan align with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 to create a resilient and people-centered region.

He further addressed the rapid urbanization in Asia, with over 57 per cent of the global population residing in urban areas, and highlighted the structural pressures on regional infrastructure and housing. He pointed out that China has reached a 67 per cent urbanisation rate, while Malaysia stands at 78 per cent.

Nga concluded by stating that the demand for sustainable, affordable, and climate-resilient urban management is an immediate challenge impacting the daily lives of millions, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts to address these pressing issues.