THE Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has received a 2.6 per cent increase in allocation under Budget 2026, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing public well-being, empowering local authorities and driving sustainable urban development.
The ministry will receive RM6.09 billion next year, up from RM5.93 billion in 2025 — an increase of RM154 million.
Minister Nga Kor Ming said the allocation would ensure every ringgit spent delivers tangible benefits for communities across both urban and rural Malaysia.
"We want the people to live comfortably, local authorities to be more competitive, and communities to thrive together in the spirit of Malaysia MADANI," he said in a statement.
He added that Budget 2026 also underscores the principles of transparency, accountability and good governance in the delivery of public services and development projects.
"The significant budget allocation is a reflection of the MADANI Government’s confidence in KPKT’s ability to uplift lives and promote a more sustainable, inclusive living environment," said Nga.
The budget prioritises four key sectors: housing, local governance, community well-being and fire and emergency services.
Among the 12 major initiatives outlined are RM672 million for the People’s Housing Programme (PRR) and Rumah Mesra Rakyat (RMR), expected to benefit over 33,000 residents, including those at PRR Ayer Lanas in Kelantan and PRR Masai in Johor.
An additional RM143 million has been set aside for maintenance of stratified housing, particularly for low- and medium-cost homes and the replacement of ageing lifts.
In a move to boost home ownership, full stamp duty exemptions on transfer instruments and loan agreements for first-time buyers of homes priced up to RM500,000 will be extended until 31 December 2027. Stamp duty for foreign buyers will be imposed at rates of four to eight per cent.
To further support access to housing, the Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJKP) will receive an additional RM10 billion, enabling 80,000 more homebuyers to secure financing.
Other key allocations include RM60 million for the construction and refurbishment of markets and stalls, RM55 million to upgrade drains and ditches to mitigate flooding, and RM95 million for the repair and enhancement of public toilets.
The government has also committed RM90 million for infrastructure upgrades in Chinese new villages and Indian settlements, and RM50 million for the upkeep of registered non-Muslim places of worship across the country, including in Sabah and Sarawak. - October 11, 2025
