PUTRAJAYA: The government has agreed to enhance the People’s Housing Programme (PPR) with the implementation of the Residensi Rakyat Programme (PRR) to provide more conducive affordable housing for the public, says Nga Kor Ming.
The Housing and Local Government Minister stated that the new PRR projects, to be constructed starting next year, would focus on accessibility, connectivity, sustainability, livability and mobility, and would include public facilities.
"PPR was the brainchild of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during his tenure as Finance Minister in 1995. Next year marks its 30th anniversary, so it’s time for an upgrade.
"This rebranding of the programme is also expected to help reduce the stigma and negative perception associated with existing PPR communities, as well as elevate the image of the housing programme under the Housing and Local Government Ministry," he said.
Nga made these remarks at a press conference following the Planning Approval Handover Ceremony for PRR Harmoni Madani Bestari Jaya.
Elaborating further, Nga said PRR in urban areas would be available for rent, while PRR developments in suburban and rural areas might be considered for ownership.
He mentioned that the minimum gross floor area for PRR units was set at 750 square feet, with a starting sale price of RM60,000 per unit and rental rates beginning at RM250 per month.
"The RM15,000 increase from the current PPR sale policy price of RM45,000 is intended to cover maintenance costs and ensure enhanced specifications are maintained regularly.
"This culture will encourage PRR residents to value shared amenities and communal property, fostering a sustainable living environment in these housing areas," he noted.
Nga added that among the improvements introduced in PRR would be community spaces, controlled access at entry points and lifts, the use of solar energy technology and more conducive housing designs.
Meanwhile, Nga stated that the government, through the ministry, had approved the proposed PRR Harmoni Madani Bestari Jaya project in Tanjung Karang, Selangor, to address the housing needs of 245 estate workers’ families in the area.
He revealed that the total estimated cost for the project was RM75mil, with the Federal Government allocating RM40mil and the Selangor government allocating RM35mil to support its completion.
He added that Berjaya Corporation Bhd (BCB) would provide the 8.1ha plot of land for this PRR project free of charge to all the affected families.
"The Ministry, along with the Selangor government, would ensure the project is realised, with construction expected to commence early next year and fully completed by the end of 2026," he said. – Bernama
