Wee: Sarawak committed to affordable, sustainable housing

KUCHING (March 14): The Sarawak government recognises that a home is more than just a property investment, said Kuching South mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng.

Wee said this when officiating the ‘Shaping the Future of Sarawak Homes’ programme at Chemsain auditorium hall on Saturday.

He said that for many families, a home represents stability, security and a place to build their future.

“This is why we have introduced several initiatives to help Sarawakians, particularly the younger generation, achieve home ownership. Among the initiatives is the RM10,000 Housing Deposit Assistance Scheme (HDAS) for first-time buyers, aimed at easing the financial burden of purchasing a first home.

“In addition, the state government provides housing loans with interest rates as low as one per cent for the B40 group. This loan is made available through Mutiara Mortgage and Credit, a state-owned financial institution for homes priced below RM300,000.

“The initiatives reflect our commitment to ensuring that all Sarawakians have access not only to affordable homes, but also to homes that are designed with safety, quality and long-term sustainability in mind,” he said.

Wee also noted that during the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting last year, the Building (Amendment) Bill 2025 was passed.

“This amendment updates the Buildings Ordinance 1994, ensuring that our construction sector keeps pace with modern requirements, whether in safety standards, sustainability considerations or technological developments in building systems.

“Good policies are important, but policies alone are not enough. What matters is how policies are translated into real improvements in the way people live,” he said.

He added that this forms part of what Sarawak calls nation building.

“Building not only infrastructure but also better living environments and stronger communities for our people,” he added.

The programme was organised by NRC Electric Fence Sdn Bhd (NRC Borneo) and supported by the Malaysian Institute of Architects Sarawak Chapter (PAMSC). It highlighted the importance of integrating security systems, smart living technology and digital infrastructure at the early stage of architectural design.

Among those present at the programme was Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai.