Malaysia to lead UN-Habitat 2026–2029
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has been appointed president of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Assembly for the 2026–2029 term, representing the Asia-Pacific region.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said this marked the first time Malaysia would assume a leadership role in UN-Habitat — a responsibility the country is fully prepared to undertake as it showcases its achievements and offers practical solutions to global urban challenges.
The four-year presidency follows UN-Habitat's system of regional rotation. Malaysia will succeed Mexico, which has represented Latin America and the Caribbean from 2019 to 2025.
Nga said that Malaysia's strong track record in sustainable urban development, housing provision, and waste management positions the country well to lead global dialogue under the theme of building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities.
"This appointment is a significant milestone in Malaysia's growing global leadership, particularly as we also assume the Asean chairmanship this year," he said.
"Our track record speaks for itself. Malaysia has achieved 43 per cent of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators — far surpassing the global average of 17 per cent. Our contributions encompass affordable housing, urban regeneration, and sustainable waste management.
"As of March 2025, we have completed 179,769 affordable housing units, with more than 235,000 currently under construction and over 76,000 in the planning stage — totalling 98.4 per cent of our national target."
Nga said that urban regeneration and legal reform would be key focus areas during Malaysia's presidency.
These include plans to table the Urban Renewal Act and the proposed Building Managers Act, aimed at addressing dilapidated buildings and poor property management.
"We are also pioneering innovative waste management through the National Circular Economy Council and our Circular Economy Blueprint (2025–2035), in addition to converting former landfill sites into public spaces," he said.
He added that Malaysia would use its presidency to amplify the voices of the Global South and foster multilateral cooperation through people-public-private partnerships.
"This is more than a diplomatic achievement — it reflects Malaysia's evolution into a responsible and forward-thinking global partner.
"It also provides a platform for us to raise the voices of the Asia-Pacific region and empower communities worldwide in their pursuit of liveable and sustainable urban environments. This strengthens Malaysia's standing in the Global South."
Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the UN-Habitat was established in 1977 and became a full programme under the UN General Assembly in 2001.
With the support of 193 member states, UN-Habitat leads global efforts on human settlements and plays a central role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 — to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
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