No shame in getting tips on housing from Singapore, says Malaysian MP
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UPDATED JAN 27, 2023, 8:03 PM SGT


JOHOR BARU – A Malaysian MP has called on detractors of a government plan inviting experts from other countries, including Singapore, to improve Malaysia’s housing policy to place public interest above political interest.

Tebrau MP Jimmy Puah Wee Tse said it was getting more difficult and frustrating for Malaysians to acquire homes as the cost of housing has been rising every year.

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On Jan 17, Mr Nga said that his ministry would examine case studies and best practices to tackle the affordable-housing issue for Malaysia.

He also said the Singapore Government is allowing the Republic’s Housing Board (HDB) flat contractors to visit his ministry in February to share their knowledge about building affordable homes.

But the minister’s plans did not go down well with several politicians, including Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, who has criticised Mr Nga’s move.

The Kedah Menteri Besar reportedly suggested during a recent rally in Kedah’s Sik district that Mr Nga’s ministry was attempting to carry out the Silk Road agenda of China.

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Mr Puah said the racial undertones in the criticism and politicking were totally unwarranted.

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Mr Puah said those who criticise the government policies should do so with an unbiased lens and debate them on their merits versus the needs of society.

These critics should place the public interest over personal and political interests that would not benefit the millions of Malaysians desperate for housing, he added.

He said there is no shame in admitting that the Singapore HDB policy is one of the most successful in the world.

Mr Puah said there is nothing wrong in wanting to learn from the success stories of others

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Mr Nambee Ashvin Nambiar, general manager of the Yayasan My First Home (YMFH) foundation, said Mr Nga has made the right move to invite representatives from Singapore to share their knowledge.

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“One of the most attractive models that makes the housing situation in Singapore unique is the fact that the land is owned by the Government for a 99-year lease, taking off the land cost, which in return reduces the housing cost and makes it affordable,” said Mr Nambee.

YMFH believes house ownership should be a fundamental right

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“We have an exemplary model close to home; we must now understand the concept and localise it to suit most Malaysians,” he said.


https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2...-tebrau-mp
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