Musa calls on developers in Sabah to build residential properties

Developers should build houses for a wider market as the rakyat, especially those in the lower income group, are finding it tough to buy houses as the prices continue to escalate. Sabah Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Musa Aman, said the middle income families were finding it difficult to buy homes that were large and comfortable. "While profit is important, it is the responsibility of the developers, especially those which have carried out projects in Sabah, to give back to the people by offering them quality yet affordable housing, and preferably in areas accessible to public transport," he said at the groundbreaking ceremony of Jesselton Residences here today. The text of his speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister-cum-Minister of Infrastructure Development, Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan. Musa said developers must provide the best finishing and landscape as some of these high-end property developments were aimed at attracting buyers under the 'Malaysia My Second Home' programme. "Reputation is everything to developers and those who are consistently able to offer homes of good quality will earn the trust of buyers," he said. He said property developers in Sabah must maintain a benchmark and to always complete their projects on time. "This will ensure that the buyers will be able to move in as promised in the sale and purchase agreement. It is not acceptable to abandon projects half way as this will leave buyers in the lurch and ruin not only the reputation of developers but also of the state," he said. He gave an assurance that the state government would listen to issues raised by property developers. Musa said Sabah needed a wide variety of development and industries to attract a diverse investor base. "We are constantly placing efforts on understanding the specific needs of investors so that the right infrastructure and conducive environment can be put in place, making it easier for those who wish to do business in Sabah," he said.