Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that as of 31 October 2025, the state has completed 170,706 housing units under the “Rumah MutiaraKu” programme, achieving 77.59% of its overall affordable housing target.

He said the state aims to deliver 220,000 affordable housing units by 2030, a goal supported by 17 development projects planned under the 2021–2030 Development Blueprint through the Penang Housing Board (LPNPP).

Chow made the announcement while tabling the Penang Budget 2026 at the State Legislative Assembly.

He added that qualification requirements for low-cost and low-medium-cost homes have been refined, with the state now offering flexible ownership pathways such as Rent-to-Own (RTO) models to better serve eligible households.

For open market applications under the PN4 category, particularly involving the high-income T20 group, Chow said the state has set a household income cap of RM20,000 per month. This aligns with Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) data, which classifies households earning around RM18,000 monthly as T20 — a category not eligible for state affordable housing.

Shared Rental and Co-living Models for Vulnerable Groups

Chow also welcomed the Federal Government’s support under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12), which includes:

• RM55 million under Rolling Plan 3 (RP3) for the Kota Giam People’s Housing Project (PPR), and
• RM30 million under Rolling Plan 5 (RP5) for the north Seberang Perai PPR project.

He emphasised that the state is committed to supporting single individuals and senior citizens, especially those living alone and in urgent need of housing. To address these needs, Penang is introducing a shared rental model for state rental housing (RSKN) and PPR units, including potential co-living arrangements to ensure equitable access to housing.

Chow reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring that Penangites continue to benefit from affordable and suitable housing options through Rumah MutiaraKu programme, supported by diversified policies and collaborative development approaches.

“Penang will continue working to ensure residents have access to affordable and appropriate housing while supporting the state’s long-term development goals,” he said.