KUCHING: The Sarawak government, through the Ministry of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, is stepping up efforts to help first-time home buyers achieve their dreams of owning a home.
Deputy Minister Datuk Dr. Penguang Manggil shared that the state has introduced several initiatives tailored to assist those struggling to afford a house amid rising living costs and escalating material prices.
“The reality is that the rising cost of living and construction materials has made home ownership challenging. This situation is not unique to Sarawak but affects many regions globally,” he explained.
To address these challenges, the Ministry offers various programs, including the Deficit Housing Scheme, subsidies, and affordable housing options. These are designed specifically to benefit lower-income groups, particularly those in the B40 category and below.
“These initiatives are part of how the Sarawak government supports house buyers, especially from lower-income brackets,” Dr. Penguang added during the launch of the SHEDA Kuching Branch (SKB) Home and Property Roadshow 2025 at Aeroville Mall on Friday.
The roadshow, a collaboration between the Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (SHEDA) and the Ministry, aims to connect potential buyers with affordable housing options. It runs from Jan 10 to Jan 12 and offers an excellent platform for first-time buyers to explore housing solutions tailored to their needs.
Dr. Penguang also acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by developers, citing risks like increasing material costs. However, he emphasized that collaborations like these play a pivotal role in ensuring housing remains accessible to all.
Sarawak’s proactive approach reflects its commitment to addressing housing affordability, especially for the state’s most vulnerable groups.