Kota kinabalu: Public housing reform is one of the key agenda emphasised by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). Its Minister, Nga Kor Ming, announced that the People’s Housing Project (PPR) will be replaced by the People’s Residential Programme (PRR) to provide quality homes for the low-income group.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia has won the gold medal at the FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence World Award for the best affordable housing project in the world for two consecutive years, with projects in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Minister Nga Kor Ming stated that the PRR in Sabah is expected to be a contender for such awards due to its exemplary planning and execution.

Sabah is reported to have the highest number of PPRs in Malaysia, with 39 projects. The Kiansom PPR, initiated during the 8MP in 2000, was completed by the current MADANI government this year, illustrating the government’s commitment to improving public housing.

Another focus under the 13MP is enhancing the allowances for volunteer firefighting teams. Nga Kor Ming mentioned that there are 367 volunteer firefighting teams in Malaysia. The KPKT has proposed to the Finance Ministry to increase the allowances from RM1,500 to RM10,000 per team, which is expected to be addressed in the upcoming budget. This initiative aims to bolster volunteerism and support the Fire Department’s efforts in cities like Tawau.