KUCHING: Sarawak is preparing to overhaul building and fire ordinances for the first time since 1979 to incorporate green standards and electric vehicle charging.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the changes are needed to align the state’s development with modern requirements, including the green building index.
“We cannot say we are going green without provisions for the green building index and electric vehicle charging.
“If you live in an apartment or condominium, you cannot have an extension cord all the way from the 10th floor down to the parking area,” he said.
He said this when met by the media after the launching of Canning Residences at Sheraton Kuching here on Saturday.
In light of this, he added that the architects’ association has been working closely with the ministry on the amendments.
“Once the new rules are in place, professionals signing off on projects must know the law and ensure compliance,” he said.
Touching on the housing development in Sarawak, Sim emphasised on the state government’s commitment to affordable housing.
“Housing is a basic need for everyone, whether urban or rural, rich or poor,’ he said.
He explained that the state has shifted from requiring developers to allocate land for affordable units to directing their contributions into the Sarawak Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
“The fund is used by agencies such as Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA), as well as kampung extension schemes, to deliver affordable homes. Longhouse loans are also available for upgrading existing units,” he said.
He said that under the 13th Malaysia Plan, the federal government has approved 20,000 affordable units for Sarawak, up from 3,000 previously.
“That is a lot of houses within the same five years,” he said.
While affordability is the government’s responsibility, he stressed that the private sector is also needed to serve different market segments, including expatriates and international students.
On Canning Residences itself, he described a development of more than three acres with 114 condominium units and four commercial lots.
“It is a very good location, with the ART Blue Line, a new private hospital and international schools nearby.
“However, even though we are building at volume, we also want standards in terms of wellness and air ventilation. I want some buildings to incorporate that.
“Housing is a necessity. That is why the government takes responsibility for affordable homes so that people can have access regardless of income,” he said.
