Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized the urgent necessity of passing the Urban Renewal Bill 2025. This legislation aims to facilitate the redevelopment of deteriorating housing and provide more dignified living conditions for Malaysians.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar declared during the Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat that it is imperative for the government to act, highlighting the contrast between the modern structures like the Twin Towers and the outdated housing many families endure. He stressed the Bill's importance as it offers a legal framework to redevelop aging urban housing areas, promising significantly improved homes for the residents.

Anwar outlined that the Bill would enable the government to construct more comfortable and contemporary homes. He specified that the proposal includes replacing one-bedroom units with a minimum of three-bedroom homes, a change particularly relevant for the many Malay residents in rundown housing.

Responding to concerns from Datuk Ahmad Amzad Mohamed (PN-Kuala Terengganu) regarding potential forced demolitions after 30 years, Anwar shared personal observations from areas like the Seri Perlis flat, where multiple families often share cramped single-bedroom spaces. He emphasized the government's responsibility to provide more suitable housing solutions.

Addressing accusations of racial intentions behind the Bill, Anwar refuted claims that it aims to change the demographics of Malay-majority areas. He challenged critics to present constructive recommendations rather than baseless accusations and assured his commitment to protecting the interests of Malays and Bumiputera.

Anwar also acknowledged the possibility of refining the legislation, suggesting that issues like threshold values could be further explored during parliamentary debates. The second reading of the Bill is scheduled as the seventh item on the Dewan Rakyat's agenda today.