Last updated on December 25, 2025
KUALA LUMPUR – The Housing and Local Government Ministry will table the much-anticipated Urban Renewal Bill (URA) in the Dewan Rakyat for its first reading this Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s efforts to revitalize aging urban areas. Minister Nga Kor Ming underscored the bill’s significance in guiding sustainable, advanced, and inclusive urban development as the nation approaches its 70th year of independence.
Following extensive stakeholder engagement—101 sessions including two with the Parliamentary Select Committee—the second and third readings are slated for August 27. At a press conference, Nga reaffirmed that the bill provides a long-overdue legislative framework to breathe new life into old towns while supporting the broader national development agenda.
Nga also outlined the Ministry’s intention to channel more resources to local authorities, empowering them as frontline implementers. He emphasized that such a strategy aligns with the MADANI Economy’s vision of sustainable development. Last year, local authorities played a crucial role in executing 6,611 public facility projects, reflecting their growing operational centrality.
On housing reform, Nga revealed that Budget 2026, the first under the 13th Malaysia Plan, will emphasize technological innovation to reduce construction costs and improve delivery timelines without compromising affordability. Though the urban affordable housing ceiling remains at RM300,000, the government’s broader goal is to boost household incomes and expand homeownership—a key pillar in Malaysia’s quest to attain high-income status.
Source: Bernama, TheEdge
