Penang has delivered 176,457 affordable housing units under its Rumah MutiaraKu (RMKu) programme, achieving 80.21% of its target of providing 220,000 units by 2030.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the figures when tabling the Penang 2027 State Budget at the State Legislative Assembly, highlighting the state government’s continued focus on expanding affordable housing opportunities.

He said the state would continue strengthening its housing agenda through additional RMKu developments, Rent-to-Own (RTO) schemes, urban renewal initiatives and the utilisation of suitable land for housing projects.

Under the Penang Housing Board’s 2021–2030 development blueprint, 22 projects have been identified, comprising 13 RMKu developments and nine urban renewal projects. These initiatives are expected to deliver a further 18,342 affordable housing units.

The state is also looking into changing housing needs, particularly among single individuals and elderly people living alone. In 2027, the Penang Housing Board will explore co-living concepts, potentially introducing them to selected state-owned rental housing and People’s Housing Programme (PPR) units.

Meanwhile, the state government has approved 578 residential lease extension applications since 2025, covering areas including Batu Kawan, Juru, Permatang Tinggi and Jelutong. The approvals allow eligible landowners to extend their lease tenure to 99 years.

Chow encouraged eligible landowners to submit their applications to their respective district and land offices in 2027.

On land taxation, Penang’s land tax review implemented in 2026 marked the first adjustment in 32 years. As at October 29, 2026, land tax collections reached RM167.59 million, an increase of RM51.54 million or 44.41% compared with RM116.05 million in 2025.

Despite providing a 50% land tax rebate and approving appeals for reductions, the state recorded higher collections. The government has agreed to continue the 50% rebate in 2027, subject to applicable conditions.