Kuching: The Sarawak government is set to embark on a transformative journey for its housing sector through the implementation of new systems and policies. This includes the extensive use of Industrialised Building System (IBS) technology and an overhauled funding mechanism for affordable housing, as articulated by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, these initiatives are deemed essential for ensuring the delivery of quality, efficient, and sustainable housing across the state. In alignment with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) and under the 13th Malaysia Plan, the Sarawak Government has committed to constructing 20,000 units of affordable housing between 2026 and 2030. To achieve this ambitious target, the government has recognized the need for a significant shift in existing systems and policies.

The announcement was made during the opening of the Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers' Association (SHEDA) Property Expo, where Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian read the Premier's speech. Abang Johari highlighted that IBS technology, driven by digitalisation and advanced engineering, is anticipated to enhance process efficiency, quality, and productivity. The technology is also expected to reduce costs, reliance on foreign labor, and construction waste.

The Sarawak government has already authorized the use of IBS in housing projects at the Beladin Rural Growth Centre (RGC) in Betong Division and the Trusan Village Expansion Scheme in Limbang Division. Additionally, public building projects exceeding RM10 million and infrastructure projects over RM100 million are mandated to adopt Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodologies by 2030.

Abang Johari further noted that depending on the market's response, there may be a need for public and private stakeholders to consider integrating the financial processes of IBS into Sarawak's Housing Ordinances and Regulations.