Penang is stepping up efforts to make homeownership more accessible for everyone through its Rumah MutiaraKu (RMKu) programme — part of the state’s ongoing “Housing for All” agenda under the Penang 2030 Vision to improve liveability and quality of life.

State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo said the initiative focuses on three main targets under the state’s Strategic Initiative A1. The first goal, to deliver 220,000 RMKu homes by 2030, has already achieved 77.3% progress, with 170,175 units completed. The second target, to build 22,000 Rent-to-Own (RTO) homes, has reached 23.16% completion, with 5,096 units ready so far.

“The third initiative aims to help 3,000 families under the urban housing scheme, and we’ve identified six Urban Renewal (PSB) projects involving 6,837 existing residential units,” Sundarajoo shared at the Penang Affordable Housing and Property Expo.

He stressed that the RMKu programme is meant to help those who genuinely need a home — not as an investment or rental opportunity. “Any misuse of public housing will be dealt with, and units will be reclaimed to give priority to families with urgent housing needs,” he said firmly.

To help those unable to secure housing loans, the state government introduced the RTO scheme as a more inclusive option. Monthly rents range from RM90 to RM200, and tenants who complete 15 years of payments will gain ownership — without needing a bank loan. “This is a second chance for homeownership. We don’t want anyone to be denied a home just because they are poor,” he said.

Sundarajoo added that public housing also caters to families needing short-term accommodation. The rental period is typically two years, extendable to three if financial conditions haven’t improved, after which the unit must be returned to help another family in need.

He also addressed concerns that some higher-income residents were occupying low-cost housing units. “Is it fair for a family earning RM15,000 a month to stay in low-income housing? Enforcing the rules isn’t being harsh — it’s about fairness and ensuring resources go to those who truly need them,” he said.

The Housing Outcome Performance Committee (HOPE), chaired by Sundarajoo, meets daily to assess eligibility and review applications. Since he took office 27 months ago, 11,058 applicants have been offered homes of various RMKu categories.

The Penang Affordable Housing and Property Expo, now in its fourth year, gathered 29 exhibitors — including 13 RMKu developers, eight private developers, five banks, and three government agencies. During the event, 30 recipients received offer letters for RMKu units at Iconic Harmoni, Twinstar, Residensi Rambai Indah, Foreshore Residence, and Ideal Venice Residency.