Penang is set to break new ground in addressing housing affordability with the launch of the Rumah Bakat Baru Madani Affordable Housing Scheme, the nation’s largest housing initiative targeting the B40 and M40 income groups.

The project, announced today, will be developed on two strategic plots of land in Seberang Perai: 34 acres in Seberang Jaya, located along Jalan Todak in front of Penang Bird Park, and 161.5 acres near Batu Kawan, close to Design Village Outlet Mall. Construction is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2025. This initiative is a collaboration between the Penang Development Corporation (PDC), its subsidiary PDC Properties, and SkyWorld Development Berhad. The signing of the joint development agreement was witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow at St Regis Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

Affordable housing for all

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow praised the project as a landmark initiative under the Federal Government’s commitment to deliver 500,000 affordable homes by 2025.

“This is a golden opportunity for Penangites and non-Penangites working in the state to own affordable homes,” Chow said. “Each unit under the Rumah Bakat Baru Madani scheme will offer a built-up area of 900 square feet, featuring three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with prices ranging from RM225,000 to RM420,000.”

Residents will also enjoy modern facilities, including a swimming pool, gym, multipurpose hall, and playground. The project’s construction will utilize Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC), making Penang the first state to adopt this innovative method under the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework.

Strong Federal and State support

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his personal connection to the initiative, particularly given his ties to Seberang Jaya. “Seberang Jaya holds a special place in my heart, as it was my childhood home. I am excited to see this project come to life,” he said.

Anwar underscored the urgency of addressing housing demand and pledged full Federal support. He expressed confidence in the state’s ability to achieve the necessary approvals by February 2025, emphasizing Penang’s track record of delivering housing solutions.

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming echoed these sentiments, pledging to expedite the approval process and affirming Anwar’s intention to attend the project’s groundbreaking ceremony.

Commitment to housing development

Penang has already delivered 170,000 affordable homes, with plans to complete an additional 50,000 units by 2030. Chow credited Penang’s strong housing policies and partnerships for its success.

The project is a result of an open tender, with SkyWorld Development Berhad emerging as the successful bidder. “We are confident that SkyWorld Development Berhad will deliver this project on time and meet the required standards,” Chow said.

The event also saw the attendance of PDC general manager Datuk Aziz Bakar, SkyWorld Development Berhad founder Datuk Seri Ng Thien Phing, and Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik.

The Rumah Bakat Baru Madani scheme represents a significant step forward in providing accessible housing and improving the quality of life for Penang’s growing population.