A PRELIMINARY STUDY ON SOCIAL HOUSING NEEDS AMONG M40 EARNERS IN MALAYSIA

Housing affordability is a major concern in both the developed and developing nations. In Malaysia, middle income families (M40 earners) are gradually experiencing issues of affordable and quality housing especially in the urban regions. Although government programs like rent and income-related subsidies have been put in place, the issue of affordability in housing is still significant. Recognising this issue, the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (2021–2025) highlights the need to improve housing provision for the M40 earners. This study aims to identify suitable criteria for the equitable allocation of social housing for M40 earners in Malaysia. The study examined definitions, criteria, and practices of the available housing programs to conceptualise the social housing, and a questionnaire survey was conducted among the M40 earners in Johor Bahru to investigate their housing preferences and the level of their affordability. The results propose key criteria in social housing development that will be in a better position to accommodate housing needs of M40 earners.  These findings may assist policymakers in improving housing policies and strengthening existing housing legislation in Malaysia.