BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Brunei aims to raise the home ownership rate from 67% to 85% by 2035, as one of the key objectives of Vision 2035.
Development Minister Dato Hj Muhd Juanda Hj Abdul Rashid, addressing the Legislative Council on Thursday, outlined plans for new housing estates in Kg Lumut, Kg Rimba, and Kg Salambigar. These projects are currently in the initial design and site study phases, with construction slated to begin in stages following detailed planning and approvals.
Funding for homes under the National Housing Scheme will be provided through the 12th National Development Plan (2024-2029).
The minister also shared that 1,500 terraced and semi-detached units in Kg Lugu are slated for completion by May 2025, and another 1,208 homes in Tanah Jambu by the end of this year.
“The Tanah Jambu area will become one of the largest public housing communities, connecting Mentiri and Lambak Kanan. This will foster a thriving neighbourhood environment with enhanced infrastructure,” Dato Hj Juanda said.
The minister said the government is also looking into new affordable housing initiatives, especially for people who do not qualify for subsidised homes under the National Housing Scheme, but still need financial assistance.
“The Ministry of Development is formulating a more sustainable and cost-effective financial model for the housing programme, including exploring collaboration with the private sector through the public-private partnerships.”
As a first step, pilot projects are being studied where private developers build affordable homes on public or private land, with the government providing basic infrastructure and incentives.
“This collaborative approach aims to reduce the government’s long-term financial burden while increasing the availability of affordable homes,” Dato Hj Juanda explained.
“These efforts, though in their early stages, demonstrate the government’s commitment and innovative approach to ensuring home ownership opportunities for all families in Brunei.”