Premier: S’wak balances economic growth with environmental responsibility in affordable housing development

KUCHING (Sept 6): Sarawak’s affordable housing development plans are geared towards balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said that housing strategies should reflect the state’s broader sustainability goals to ensure economic prosperity, social inclusion, and environmental stewardship.

“Whether it is discussing quotas, payment mechanisms, or other efficiency strategies, we will address these issues holistically within the context of industry needs and developmental milestones of corresponding sectors,” he said in a text speech read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (Sheda) Property Expo opening at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.

Abang Johari said Sarawak had declared its intention to step up as a leader in sustainability to the world.

As Sarawak’s journey towards sustainability began long before it became a global movement with the operation of the Batang Ai dam in the 1980s, he pointed out that property development should strike a balance between maintaining quality and without further depleting existing natural resources.

“Quality or function refers to more than just the facade of the building; the development needs to be well-connected, accessible, community-centric and enhance economic prospects for its occupants.

“Crucially, the advancement of such quality, function and performance should at the same time not be at the expense of depleting our natural resources,” he said.