The 80 percent consent threshold proposed under the Urban Renewal Bill 2025 is among the highest in the world and complies with international best practice standards, serving as a prerequisite for initiating negotiations among property owners, according to the Housing and Local Government Ministry.

The ministry said the bill also upholds the principle of “no less favourable”, whereby each owner will receive a replacement housing unit that is larger, of higher value and equipped with modern facilities, without any additional cost.

“The bill was drafted to meet the urgent need to renew dilapidated and ageing housing areas, to create safer, more comfortable, inclusive and liveable cities for Malaysians,” it said in a statement today.

The bill also does not alter existing land status, whereby in cases involving Malay Reserve Land, the land status will remain unchanged, as will leasehold or freehold tenure, as emphasised by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

So far, the ministry has held 104 engagement sessions with various stakeholders, including the parliamentary special select committee, government agencies, think tanks and academic experts.

In addition, the ministry has organised the Urban Renewal Bill Expedition to bring MPs to visit ageing housing areas to see first-hand the urgent need for the legislation.

“The Housing and Local Government Ministry will hold another special briefing session with MPs next Monday to clarify any misunderstandings, and all MPs have been invited to attend,” it said.

It reiterated its commitment to implementing the proposed Urban Renewal Act fairly, transparently and inclusively, balancing the rights of property owners with the interests of the people and the future of the nation.

According to the statement, the Housing and Local Government Ministry remains open to receiving views from all parties to ensure that the implementation of the Act truly benefits all Malaysians.

- Bernama

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COMMENT | Can Madani deliver one million affordable homes?

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