“I want every Sabahan to always have food on the table and a place of his own to call home.” - Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor
In an effort to alleviate poverty, the Rumah Mesra SMJ programme, initiated by the Sabah GRS government in 2022, is actively helping low-income and rural communities overcome housing challenges.
Under the programme, 3,000 houses will be built in 2025 at a cost of RM250 million, benefiting all 73 constituencies in the state.
Free homes for the poorest
Launched in 2022, Rumah Mesra SMJ is a state initiative designed to help low-income groups attain proper homes, particularly the B40 category. Implemented under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap, it seeks to address housing challenges and reduce poverty, especially in rural areas.
The brainchild of Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor, the programme provides free homes valued at RM80,000 each for hardcore poor households, built under the PPRT (Program Perumahan Rakyat Termiskin) model.
It received an initial special federal funding of RM125.6 million, channelled through the Rural Development Ministry, to build 1,500 homes across all State Legislative Assembly (DUN) areas in Sabah.
“This initiative focuses on essential federal and state government aid and aligns with our objectives - to promote policies, introduce new initiatives, and enhance public awareness of national development plans,” Hajiji stated.
“The success of independence should be felt by all - from rural areas to coastal villages to towns. That’s all I hope and want,” he added.
A lifeline for Keningau’s needy
The Rumah Mesra SMJ programme has greatly benefited communities in dire need of shelter in Keningau district, which has one of the highest poverty rates in the state.
Since its launch in September 2022, the housing scheme has been significantly expanded and the Sabah government has streamlined the application process to ensure that the aid reaches the right recipients.
“In the first year, my constituency was allocated 40 houses. In 2024, it was 60,” shared Liawan assemblyperson Annuar Ayub. “All this is made possible by the leadership of Chief Minister Hajiji Noor and the Sabah government’s efforts.”
Annuar explained that the situation in Liawan is unique, in that the initiative is focused on improving living conditions rather than addressing homelessness.
“These people are not homeless - they can build basic houses, but many live in overcrowded or substandard conditions,” he noted, citing examples of multiple families sharing one uninhabitable house.
He added that continuity in state governance will allow for continuous and targeted support to local communities and in the long term advance the entire state of Sabah.
A new home, a new beginning
For Marcella Patsy Machare, 33, moving into a new home in 2024 was a life-changing moment. Previously living right next door in a dilapidated wooden house, the mother of five now enjoys a more comfortable dwelling.
“It feels amazing - I’m happy and deeply touched,” she said, reflecting on the move. Daily life has become much easier, especially with access to basic necessities.
“Before, things were a bit difficult. We even had to fetch water using pails for our daily use. Now, I have running water flowing from the tap, my burden has become lighter.”
The support from the state government and local representatives, through the Rumah Mesra SMJ programme, played a crucial role in making this possible.
“They’ve helped a lot, not just with this house but also through other forms of assistance from time to time,” she shared.
Now, with a place to truly call home, Marcella is grateful for this new beginning. “I want to thank the Sabah government and the Liawan assemblyperson for giving us this home,” she said with a heartfelt smile.
A home of hope
For former Malaysian Armed Forces personnel Sahali Siman, receiving a government-assisted home in Sabah has been a profound blessing. Health issues forced him to leave his career, making it difficult to support his large family. The new home provided much-needed stability.
“Since receiving this house, I’ve felt nothing but happiness and gratitude,” Sahali shared. “I have yet to find work, so this assistance makes me feel valued. It shows the state government truly cares for those in need.”
The house, provided under the Rumah Mesra SMJ programme, was handed over in September last year. Sahali, his wife, Nurlela Masidik, and their eight children now have a safe and comfortable place to live.
“Our old house would flood whenever it rained. Water would pour into the rooms and living area, and we had to place basins everywhere,” he recalled. “Now, everything is different. This house is comfortable, and we no longer have to worry.”
Sahali was initially unsure about qualifying for assistance. “I was the first in my village to receive an SMJ house. It was unexpected, but I feel truly blessed,” he said.
“And it’s not just me - many struggling families have received help. The Sabah government is making sure aid reaches those who need it most.”
With three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen, the home is a major improvement for his family. “I hope my children work hard in their studies and build a better future,” Sahali said. “This house, though not large, has given us stability and hope.”
Despite space constraints, the family has adjusted well. “With so many of us, some sleep on the floor, some on chairs - but we are comfortable,” he said. “Most importantly, we feel at peace.”
Nurlela is also grateful. “Cooking here is much easier,” she said. When asked about their meals, she smiled and shared, “Today, my children helped prepare the food.”
Their eldest child is 25 years old, while the youngest is 11. Sahali remains deeply appreciative. “First and foremost, I thank Allah for this blessing. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the state government leaders, local officials, and community members who helped us secure this home.”
For Sahali and his family, this house is more than just a place to live - it is a fresh start, a source of comfort, and a symbol of a brighter future ahead.
