Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has proposed that new people’s housing projects be developed on or near public transport stations, aiming to encourage more comprehensive use of the public transport system. Anwar emphasized that such a housing development concept would not only provide more strategic residences for low-income groups but also pave the way for a more sustainable and organized urban lifestyle.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar mentioned that there are proposals to develop housing directly on top of public transport stations, which requires certain legal amendments currently being worked on. He cited the Kota MADANI project as an example, highlighting the importance of comprehensive and centralized basic amenities, including vertical development, for the welfare of the people.
The Prime Minister shared these insights while speaking at the Malaysia MADANI Scholars’ Forum (FIM) Series 6 at Menara Prasarana. The forum, organized by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), addressed the topic ‘Transport for the People: Balancing Affordability, Quality, and Sustainability of Public Transport’. Notable participants included Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Prasarana Malaysia Berhad President and Group Chief Executive Officer Mohd Azharuddin Mat Sah, and Universiti Putra Malaysia Vice-Chancellor Datuk Prof Dr Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah.
Anwar also highlighted the importance of open discourse platforms like the forum to ensure government policies are informed by various perspectives, including those from academicians, industry experts, government supporters, and even the opposition. He expressed appreciation for the constructive criticism and suggestions offered by the panellists and committed to bringing these issues to the Cabinet meeting.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke, responding to Anwar’s call for new developments near public transport facilities, noted that the new measure under discussion involves conceptual changes in urban development and planning. Loke emphasized that housing development with access to public transport requires significant changes in policy and paradigm, aiming to promote mobility and strategic home ownership.
According to Loke, developing housing near public transport stations could reduce reliance on private vehicles. He mentioned ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) about guidelines for housing projects near public transport stations, including reducing parking requirements due to improved access to public transport.