SkyWorld partners Penang state agencies for massive affordable housing project targeting M40

• Anwar encouraged both the state and federal governments to work together to get this project started as quickly as possible. 

KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 10): SkyWorld Development Bhd has partnered with Penang Development Corp (PDC) and its subsidiary PDC Properties (PDCP) to develop affordable housing projects offering over 35,000 units to the M40 group in the state. Spanning a total land area of 195.54 acres Seberang Jaya and Batu Kawan, the RM13 billion project is said to be the largest affordable housing project in Penang and Malaysia's history.

Witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Housing and Local Government (KPKT) Minister Nga Kor Ming and Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow, the agreement was signed by PDC chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Aziz Bakar, PDCP CEO Ir. Ismail Ishak, and SkyWorld founder and executive chairman Datuk Seri Ng Thien Ping and SkyWorld CEO Lee Chee Seng at the St Regis Kuala Lumpur here on Tuesday (Dec 10).

PM Anwar urges for submission processes to be sped up

In his speech, Anwar encouraged both the state and federal governments to work together to get this project started as quickly as possible. 

“Reflecting on my past experiences, such as when I was involved in housing projects in Wangsa Maju, Kerinchi and Gombak, I learned the importance of reducing holding costs. Lengthy submission processes, sometimes up to a year, would add significantly to expenses.

“By reducing this timeline to three months, for example, costs can be cut by RM5,000 to RM10,000 per unit. Speeding up the process ensures better cost control, as demonstrated in KL with the 45-day completion timeline for a housing project in Taman Desa. Given this track record, I am confident this project can progress efficiently,” Anwar stressed

Aim not for grand display, but practical life quality

“The housing crisis stands out as one of the biggest challenges nowadays. In major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh and Johor Bahru, the challenge is in ensuring equitable access to housing that supports a comfortable family life. This is a significant concern that must be addressed thoughtfully,” said the PM. 

He stressed that development must not merely aim for growth or economic achievements. It must focus on fostering humane progress. True development is not about impressive statistics or grand displays; it’s about tangible improvements in the quality of life for the people.

“This includes ensuring adequate housing, education, public amenities, and schools, not just flashy restaurants or the proliferation of commercial outlets. What matters most is creating meaningful improvements for the majority, particularly in small eateries and local businesses like warungs and modest restaurants,” he elaborated.

Target of 500,000 affordable homes within reach 

Nga highlighted that the government is on track to meet its 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) target of 500,000 affordable homes by 2025. With 89% of the current target, or 443,000 units already secured, the goal is well within reach. 

“SkyWorld has earned recognition for its excellence, winning several prestigious awards, including two consecutive World Gold Awards (Fiabci World Prix d'Excellence Awards). This highlights the company’s dedication and consistency in development. 

“Building on this momentum, it is hoped that SkyWorld will successfully deliver this project and achieve similar accolades,” Nga said.

According to Chow, the affordable housing project will be built on 34.04 acres in Seberang Jaya and 161.5 acres in Batu Kawan. 

“Units will start from 900 sq ft and include amenities like swimming pools, gyms and playgrounds. Priced between RM225,000 and RM420,000, these units are targeted at households earning less than RM11,800 per month. The entire project is estimated to take 15 years to complete,” he elaborated.

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