The government encourages more developers to respond positively to the call in adopting Green Building Index (GBI), which focuses on energy efficiency, indoor environment quality, sustainable site planning and management, material and resources efficiency and design innovation.
“The GBI elements in residential planning involve long term energy savings.
“While certain green methods or technology can be a bit more costly to adopt, in the long term it can be worth it for developers in terms of energy savings, sustainable development and better corporate image.
“It is advisable for big projects to consider this,” said Assistant Housing Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He pointed out that there is a need for a paradigm shift in housing planning in terms of living environment and design, as buyers nowadays are wiser and more selective in their buying decision.
“It is important to maintain reputation as developers who can provide quality design, attractive pricing, excellent workmanship and good amenities.
“Telecommunications is another must-have technology in a housing area nowadays.
“Living in an area with clear network reception is important and availability of wireless Internet service is a big bonus to residents.
“With this in mind, we are making efforts to collaborate with Mimos Berhad to make Internet communication available in Sibu Jaya, which will be the first smart township in the state,” he said when officiating at the Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (Sheda) annual dinner on Friday night.
According to Abdul Karim, the Housing Ministry is also in the process of formulating the state’s own housing policy to complement the national housing policy introduced last year.
“We will get feedbacks from key stakeholders to ensure we would have an integrated policy that addresses current issues and future trends in the housing sector,” he stressed.
He also pointed out that there is a need for joint efforts between the public and private sectors to address the tremendous housing needs of the people.
“It is hoped that the good rapport and cooperation between these two sectors will not only enhance the benefits of industry players themselves but also the welfare of the rakyat,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sheda president Zaidi Ahmad said Sheda members have always been cracking their heads to address the issue of providing the market with adequate supply of houses at affordable prices.
“Affordability is the biggest issue for both house buyers and developers alike.
“Government’s efforts such as 1Malaysia Housing Programme (PR1MA) and My First Home Scheme could help make affordable housing more available.
“It is our appeal for these schemes to be made available for the people of Sarawak urgently,” he said.
Zaidi also called on fellow association members to embrace green building and other viable concepts in order to progress.
The Sheda Excellent Awards for Year 2011 were also presented at the dinner, which served to recognise members who excelled in their respective fields.
The winners were Temenggong Barry Yek Siew Hui (Property Man of the Year), Hock Seng Lee Realty (Special Award in Creative Designs and Concept for Detached House – Ryvanden Project), Sarawak Land Kemena Park Sdn Bhd (Special Award in Master Plan – Bintulu Parkcity-Waterfront Completed Project), MJC City Development Sdn Bhd (Merit Award in Master Plan – Batu Kawah New Township Completed Project) and Ibraco Berhad (Merit Award for Outstanding Retail Development – Giant Hypermall Stutong).
