Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has instructed state Housing Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo to review the housing discount policy announced for Indian Muslims, with the intention of expanding the initiative to benefit all homebuyers.

The directive follows public feedback regarding the recent announcement of a five per cent discount for first-time Indian Muslim homebuyers on unsold completed units. Chow said the feedback suggested that such incentives should be extended to all buyers to help rejuvenate the property market, especially in addressing the issue of overhang units.

“The goal is to ensure the policy is more inclusive and aligned with the principles of social justice,” Chow stated, adding that Sundarajoo is expected to work with developers to explore broader implementation.

The state executive council (exco) will deliberate on the policy in an upcoming meeting and make a final decision that serves the interests of all communities.

Sundarajoo had earlier clarified that the discount does not apply to Bumiputera quota units or alter existing housing policies. He said the initiative aimed to encourage greater homeownership among underrepresented groups, without infringing on the rights of others.

The policy announcement sparked criticism from human rights lawyer Rajesh Nagarajan, prompting Penang DAP chairman Steven Sim Chee Keong to raise the issue with Chow. Sim reaffirmed the state’s commitment to ensuring fair access to housing for all Malaysians.