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“YAPEIM delivers 268 affordable homes nationwide under the Sinar Lestari programme, improving housing access and livelihoods for low-income Malaysians.”
Kuala Lumpur, 04th May 2026, 3.30pm – The Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation continues to expand its affordable housing efforts under the Sinar Lestari programme, with 268 homes completed nationwide to date for underprivileged communities.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said the initiative aims to provide safer and more comfortable living conditions for low-income families through strategic collaborations.
Progress towards nationwide housing target
Since its launch in 2020, the programme has targeted the construction of 374 housing units across Malaysia, with ongoing efforts to complete the remaining projects.
Each unit is built at an estimated cost of RM80,000, supported by partnerships with various organisations to accelerate delivery and expand reach.
In Terengganu alone, 35 houses valued at nearly RM2 million have been completed under the initiative.
Fast-track construction to meet urgent needs
Authorities noted that each home is typically completed within four months, allowing assistance to reach beneficiaries efficiently.
The programme is further strengthened through collaboration with the Sultan Mizan Royal Foundation, enhancing both implementation capacity and outreach.
Beyond housing: improving livelihoods
Officials emphasised that Sinar Lestari goes beyond providing shelter by integrating financial assistance and entrepreneurship support to improve long-term economic stability for recipients.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to build sustainable income streams, with some planning small businesses such as automotive workshops to support their families.
Real impact on beneficiaries
Recipients say the programme has significantly improved their quality of life.
One homeowner shared that her family previously lived in a cramped 12×12 sq ft rented room, before moving into a newly built house with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Strengthening social housing ecosystem
The Sinar Lestari initiative reflects broader efforts to enhance Malaysia’s social housing framework, particularly for vulnerable groups, while promoting community wellbeing and financial resilience.
Industry observers note that such programmes complement national housing policies by addressing affordability gaps and supporting inclusive development.
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