“Malaysia boosts funding for affordable housing under the rebranded PPRS program and explores rural development initiatives, says Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi.“
Malacca, 08th Nov 2024, 2.35pm – The Malaysian government has increased funding for the construction of new homes under the rebranded Program Perumahan Rakyat Sejahtera (PPRS), previously known as the Poor Housing Programme (PPRT), according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Under the new allocations, funding for new homes in Peninsular Malaysia has been raised from RM66,000 to RM79,000, while in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, it has increased from RM79,000 to RM85,000. Additionally, home repair funding has been raised to RM20,000 from RM15,000 in Peninsular Malaysia and from RM17,000 to RM20,000 in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan. Ahmad Zahid also announced a slight increase in the size of new homes under the program, from 660 square feet to 680 square feet.
These updates were shared after Ahmad Zahid chaired a coordination meeting between the Rural and Regional Development Ministry and rural executive council members. The meeting was also attended by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
Proposals for Inclusive Education and Expanded Initiatives
During the meeting, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, discussed a proposal to build specialized education kindergartens for autistic children in every district. Although this initiative requires significant funding and cannot be implemented immediately, he emphasized that the ministry will work on advancing the proposal.
He also praised the digital village and community paramedic programs introduced by the Melaka government, noting that these initiatives could serve as models for other states. “We appreciate Melaka’s innovative approach and will explore expanding these programs nationwide,” he said.
The expanded funding and new initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to enhancing living standards and providing support to rural communities across Malaysia.
