As HDB link-up vilified, researchers say country has much to learn from Singapore's holistic approach to public housing

• Published date: 02 February 2023
• Publication title: Malay Mail Online

Several researchers have called into question the recent narrative demonising Putrajaya's attempt to consult Singapore's Housing and Development Board (HDB), clarifying that the republic is well-known for its successful public housing model.

They told Malay Mail Malaysia could learn to implement effective public housing development, with independent urban researcher Aziff Azuddin pointing to Singapore's holistic urban planning that takes into account mobility, housing, work and access where HDBs are a thoughtful aspect of that highly-controlled ecosystem.

'As urban public housing, Singapore HDBs are a good standard to follow and Malaysia can certainly learn a lot from it,' he said in a recent interview.

The data analyst and former policy researcher said right now, urban planners in Malaysia seem to work in different silos rather than planning holistically.

'Anyone experiencing trying to walk and find a place to live in Klang Valley would find it evident. The best example is how by design, access to anywhere is incredibly difficult if you don't own a car or motorcycle,' he said.

He said that in Singapore, residents can live their whole lives without owning a private vehicle because housing is planned alongside transport, and commercial or work access.

General view of PPR Pantai Ria in Kuala Lumpur January 29, 2023. - Picture by Shafwan Zaidon

General view of PPR Pantai Ria in Kuala Lumpur January 29, 2023. - Picture by Shafwan Zaidon

Additionally, Aziff explained that the HDB model works well in Singapore because land space is limited and the government has to be resourceful with urban planning.

He said Singapore had the foresight to consider important aspects of community living for their HDBs.

'So you see HDB spaces also being used for community activities, alongside it being very accessible for transit and mobility,' he said.

He pointed out that HDBs are public housing with a 99-year lease so that ownership opportunities can be given to others while its pricing is accessible to all.

Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia (ISIS) economic analyst, Qarrem Kassim, concurred that Malaysia needs to review its public housing policy to make it more community-based and wholesome.

He noted that the HDB housing in Singapore is well-kept and in most cases, looks like luxurious condominiums in Malaysia and is equipped with necessary amenities and infrastructure.

Qarrem said the maintenance of the public housing schemes in Malaysia needs to be improved and...