BINTULU: New areas in Tatau will be developed as part of an effort to address the rising cost of housing here, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the initiative aims to increase housing supply and ensure property prices remain reasonable and within reach for the local population.
“House prices here are indeed high, particularly on this side, because they depend heavily on demand.
“Currently, even a one-room unit can cost up to RM1,000 to rent.
“That is why we are opening up new areas, to create a balance between supply and demand and to ensure house prices are more reasonable.
“We are expanding into new areas, all the way to Tatau,” he said.
He said this in his speech at the Bintulu Development Authority’s (BDA) Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri event at Balai Raya Kampung Assyakirin here today.
Abang Johari stressed that the state government is committed to easing the cost of living in Bintulu, especially in terms of housing.
With ample land available in Tatau, he said, the focus now is on leveraging technology to reduce construction costs and deliver affordable homes.
“There should be no issues with land – there is enough. What we need is the technology that can reduce construction costs.
“Let us embrace new approaches and open new areas, so that the cost of living in Bintulu, particularly in terms of housing rent, can be reduced, at least to a manageable level.
“It will take time, but it can be achieved through these new approaches we are implementing,” he said.
He called for continued political stability and proactive leadership to ensure Sarawak’s growth is sustainable and inclusive, adding that BDA will play a key role in overseeing strategic planning for the Tatau area.
“With the right leadership, ideas, and unity, we can realise our vision of a prosperous Sarawak that is not only known in Malaysia, but also across ASEAN and the world,” said Abang Johari.
