Latest news with #AseanRealEstateConference
The Sun
25-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
US tariffs – Short-term shock, long-term opportunities for Asean real estate industry
KUALA LUMPUR: While the US reciprocal tariffs announced on April 2 have unsettled equity markets and export-driven sectors, property leaders believe the disruption could accelerate the adoption of digital technologies, sustainable construction practices and regional trade integration within Asean's real estate landscape. During a panel discussion titled 'Industry Countermeasures: Absorbing the Recent US Tariff Shockwaves' at the Asean Real Estate Conference and the Architecture, Interior Design and Building Exhibition 2025, three prominent figures – Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association (Rehda) president Datuk Ho Han Sang, PropertyGuru Group's head of real estate intelligence Dr Lee Nai Jia and United Overseas Bank senior Asean economist Enrico Tanuwidjaja – said that while the new US tariffs – which are scheduled to go into effect on Aug 1 – bring short-term uncertainty, they also present potential long-term opportunities for the industry. Ho said Malaysian developers are bracing for softer demand in industrial, commercial and high-end residential segments as exporters negotiate who will absorb the higher costs. 'Profit margins will be squeezed as importers and exporters split the burden,' he told the audience. 'With higher prices, purchase volumes will drop and investors will be more cautious. Slower sales mean cash flow problems, and cash flow is reality; without it, there is no oxygen.' Ho noted that while most construction inputs are locally sourced, imported steel, aluminium and glass may see price pressure if the ringgit weakens. The first sectors to feel the pinch, he said, will be export-driven industries scaling back factory expansions, reducing office space needs, and curbing retail growth. Yet he also flagged bright spots. 'Tariffs on Chinese goods could redirect manufacturing to Asean, and a weaker ringgit may attract buyers from Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan into projects like Penang Silicon Island or the Johor‑Singapore Special Economic Zone.' Lee observed similar patterns across Asean. Using PropertyGuru's platform data, he described a three‑stage reaction: initial shock, quick normalisation and preference recalibration. 'After the announcement, views on listings in Singapore plunged, while Malaysia and Vietnam saw smaller dips,' he said. 'But people quickly remembered that housing is a long‑term need. What changed is their behaviour where buyers are gravitating towards more affordable, value‑driven homes.' He highlighted Singapore's Linton Woods project, which sold 94% of units despite tariffs, thanks to its proximity to transport and employment hubs. 'Integrated developments are resilient,' Lee said. 'The key is offering value and convenience.' He added that confidence in governance, stemming from Vietnam's policy reforms to Malaysia's interest rate cuts, continues to underpin the region's housing markets. From a macro lens, Tanuwidjaja said the tariffs underline Asean's need to boost internal trade and reduce dependence on external markets. 'Intra‑Asean trade is only 17%, compared to over 40% in the EU,' he said. 'We need to integrate, use local currency settlements, harmonise regulations and build supply chains that loop within the region.' While describing Asean as 'resilient', he warned that volatility will persist throughout the current US administration: 'Businesses must plan for turbulence, not a quick fix. The next midterm election in 2026 is the next real pivot.' He also urged governments and developers to prepare for technological disruption. 'AI will transform customer service, marketing and operations. We must retrain workers for higher‑skill roles like architecture, design thinking, project integration, because low‑skill roles are most at risk.' All three panellists stressed innovation as a pathway through the turbulence. Ho highlighted Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD), a platform that digitally unites 180 industry stakeholders to cut errors and speed approvals, as a game‑changer already deployed in Singapore. 'IDD minimises waste and aligns everyone from engineers to regulators,' he said. 'Speedier approvals, like Penang's recent 36‑day affordable housing clearance, reduce costs and help projects move despite headwinds.' Green technology also surfaced as a competitive advantage. Lee pointed to Vietnam's success in renewable energy during the first trade war. 'This is our chance to lead with climate‑sensitive design and ESG frameworks tailored to Southeast Asia's climate,' he said. Looking beyond domestic markets, Ho urged Malaysian developers to revive their overseas promotion campaigns, targeting buyers from Hong Kong, China, and Singapore. 'Our products are internationally recognised and competitively priced by Asean standards,' he said. 'With stable governance and award‑winning townships, Malaysia can stand out.' Tanuwidjaja echoed the sentiment: 'The higher tide will lift all boats but only if Asean rows together.' While uncertainties remain, the panel's tone shifted from caution to resolve. The tariffs, they argued, could catalyse Asean's next phase of growth by forcing integration, accelerating digital tools and prioritising sustainability. 'If you don't change, you'll be changed,' Ho said. 'This is the moment for our industry to reinvent and emerge stronger.'
The Star
20-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Innovating Asean's urban landscape
Malaysia champions Asean's sustainable, liveable urban future THE real estate landscape across Asean is experiencing a paradigm shift. As rapid urbanisation converges with climate imperatives, technological advancement, digital innovation and shifting socio-economic priorities, the region finds itself at a defining crossroads. From the rising skylines of major cities to the development of smart, sustainable townships, urban life in the 10 Asean member states is evolving at pace. But this transformation is about more than expansion – it calls for a deeper rethink of how cities are designed to be liveable, inclusive and ready for the future. To address housing challenges, population pressures and the climate crisis, South-East Asian nations must embrace a cohesive, forward-looking approach to urban planning and real estate development. Malaysia is leading this charge by hosting a first-of-its-kind regional platform – the Asean Real Estate Conference (AREC) 2025, an initiative by the Housing and Local Government Ministry. Taking place from July 23 to 26 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), AREC 2025 will convene leaders, innovators and changemakers to chart a bold and collaborative path for Asean's urban future. 'By embracing the right strategies, Asean can continue to build on its success,' says Nga. With the theme 'The Real Estate Renaissance: Innovate, Integrate, Impact,' the four-day conference will explore emerging trends and technologies, leveraging innovative tools to guide the industry toward sustainable and inclusive development – ensuring that progress benefits all stakeholders in Asean countries while minimising environmental harm. 'AREC 2025 sets the stage for industry players and stakeholders, property developers, technology providers and innovators to present their latest advancements to drive a renaissance that is not only profitable but also sustainable, equitable and regenerative,' said Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming. He explained that by showcasing these innovations, the conference aims to attract regional and international investors, promote public-private partnerships and unlock new business opportunities aligned with Asean's long-term sustainability and growth goals. The opening ceremony of AREC 2025 and the 24th International Architecture, Interior Design and Building Exhibition (ARCHIDEX) 2025 will be officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof on July 23 at KLCC. Regional alignment One of AREC 2025's key objectives is to foster deeper regional cooperation through knowledge-sharing, policy formulation and regulatory alignment. 'It is not a choice but a necessity for Asean countries to come together and present ourselves as a united, stable region – a safe haven for global investors, particularly in times of uncertainties, with the rise of geopolitical uncertainties amid tariff war and potential disruption to global supply chain, which could impact to the construction sector. 'To emerge strong as a region, it is vital for us to develop common regulatory pathways and work hand-in-hand on advancing technology, innovation and sustainable growth. No single nation can navigate these challenges in isolation – we must act as one economic bloc that is resilient, competitive and future ready.' Nga also noted that AREC 2025 provides a platform for knowledge and technology exchange, fostering greater collaboration among industry professionals and policymakers on sustainable and inclusive real estate development strategies. 'Without these shared pathways, we risk fragmentation –where each country competes in isolation rather than thriving together as a collective bloc. 'As such, AREC 2025 reflects this urgency, where the conference will spotlight efforts to harmonise real estate investment regulations across Asean.' Strategic partnership AREC 2025 builds upon key outcomes from the second Asean-China Ministerial Roundtable on Construction and Housing (ACMROCH) 2024, where ministers and representatives adopted a high-level communique aimed at implementing sustainable urban development across Asean member states and China. 'It seeks to promote better progress towards sustainability through innovative strategies,' said Nga. He added that these priorities will be further explored during the AREC Forum sessions, featuring speakers from Asean and the international community. 'AREC will focus on strengthening the framework for cooperation in housing through smart technology, innovation, financing and the development of climate-resilient cities,' he said. Commercial potential Public-private partnerships are central to AREC 2025's agenda, particularly in driving innovation in green design, smart construction and landscape materials. The conference aims to connect government bodies with developers, technology providers and innovators to support commercialisation and scalable adoption. 'Sustainability requires the 4P Principle: People-Public-Private Partnerships. While the public sector is responsible to implement the right policies, the private sector serves as the driving force behind innovation. 'We are looking at potential commercialisation, particularly in areas like construction materials, landscape materials, green designs and other industries that support the real estate sector,' said Nga. He added that AREC 2025 provides a platform for industry players to showcase new and emerging real estate innovations and ignite investment opportunities. Real estate hub As host, Malaysia is using AREC 2025 to highlight its progress in smart housing, sustainable townships and innovative real estate developments. These efforts are part of a broader goal to position the country as a leading hub for investment, collaboration and thought leadership within the Asean real estate ecosystem. 'We want to showcase Malaysia's housing development and sustainable townships to attract investments and foster collaboration among businesses in Asean. In fact, our local developers have world-class potential. Just recently, Malaysia bagged nine accolades at the FIABCI World Prix d'Excellence Awards 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.' Built priorities Malaysia's national housing and urban development goals are centred on improving housing affordability, elevating construction quality and strengthening urban liveability for its communities. As at March 2025, the ministry has approved a total of 492,360 affordable housing units, representing 98.5% of the overall target of 500,000 units under the 12th Malaysia plan. By promoting Asean best practices, encouraging innovation and driving the adoption of new technologies, the conference aims to accelerate cost-effective housing solutions, boost the quality of housing developments and enhance the efficiency of urban management.'It's about providing housing development that works for all communities,' said Nga. Leadership synergy AREC 2025 is being held in conjunction with Malaysia's Asean chairmanship, alongside other key meetings. 'The conference will provide a strong platform for Asean member states and partners to discuss the global real estate sector – including sustainability, smart infrastructure and community-centric planning,' said Nga. 'By embracing the right strategies, Asean can continue to build on its success, setting new benchmarks in the construction and housing industries. The achievements of our industries and the spirit of cooperation within Asean should serve as inspiration, driving us all toward greater heights,' he added. Nga also noted that AREC 2025 will enable knowledge and technology exchanges across its three main segments: > AREC Forum (Plenary Theatre, July 23–24); > AREC Business Matching (Meeting Rooms 304 and 305, July 24); > AREC Exhibition (Hall 5A, July 23–26). 'The segments will act as a platform to exchange and showcase the rise of technological advancements, including those offering smart home technologies, which are increasing the demand for co-working spaces and mixed-use development that could require different offers from developers in the future,' he revealed. The AREC Forum will feature a keynote address by Nga and four major sessions: > Industry Countermeasures: Absorbing the recent USA tariff shockwaves – Navigating global shocks relating to US tariffs and their impact on Asean's construction sector. > The Digital Builders: Transforming housing with smart tech and innovation – Embracing cutting-edge technologies, artificial intelligence and Building Information Modeling for faster, greener, cost-efficient housing. > Masterplanning the Future: Reawakening cities that breathe and thrive – Rethinking urban renewal with climate-resilient, community-driven design. > Bridges of Change: Funding, partnerships and people power for sustaining housing – Green financing, incentives and partnerships and citizen empowerment for long-term housing progress. Speakers include regional and global experts, industry leaders, academics, non-governmental organisations' representatives and Asean and partners, including China. Inclusive access AREC 2025 is committed to broad participation across all levels of society and industry. Its AREC Exhibition is free and open to the public. Held concurrently with ARCHIDEX – one of Asia's largest events in this sector – it removes financial barriers and allows a wider audience to engage with the latest trends and innovations in real estate. Together with ARCHIDEX, AREC 2025 will host approximately 1,000 exhibitors and its exhibition will also feature Asean Real Estate booths, offering a regional lens on what innovation looks like across diverse housing markets. 'In the spirit of regional cooperation and shared learning, participation is open to all without quota restrictions,' he said, reflecting balanced representation from companies and organisations from across Asean. The Business Matching segment offers direct access to property and construction companies from Asean countries and China. It provides an opportunity to showcase their projects, connect with key decision-makers, gain visibility, scale ideas and attract strategic partners within the regional real estate landscape. The Business Matching segment is expected to involve participation from 200 companies throughout the year. 'Do come and connect with an influential audience, including developers, architects, contractors, designers and key decision makers, at one of Malaysia's best venues for major exhibitions and conventions in Kuala Lumpur.' Deal prospects Deal prospects from ARCHIDEX and AREC 2025 are expected to generate RM2bil in potential investment. These components are anticipated to host over 500 business engagements with participants from Asean and beyond. 'Economic growth is boosting purchasing power, leading to bigger investment in real estate, especially in residential and commercial sectors.' The ministry is collaborating with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) to bring main players in real estate to negotiate business deals during AREC 2025, he said. Register for the AREC 2025 Forum at or find more information on Business Matching (liew@ or register for the Exhibition ( and for General Enquiries (arec.2025@
The Sun
14-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Archidex, Arec 2025 to generate RM2bil in investments
KUALA LUMPUR: The upcoming International Architecture, Interior Design and Building Exhibition (Archidex) and Asean Real Estate Conference (Arec) 2025 are expected to generate RM2 billion in investments, positioning Malaysia as a regional hub for sustainable urban innovation. Housing and Local Government Ministry Minister Nga Kor Ming said the events – to be held this July at Mitec and KLCC – will attract over 56,000 visitors from 110 countries. 'These platforms drive economic growth, spark regional collaboration and promote future-ready urban development,' he said, noting RM1 billion was transacted at last year's edition. Archidex 2025, held under the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival, will run from July 21 to 24 at Mitec and from July 23 to 26 at KLCC. The exhibition will feature over 850 exhibitors and showcases, including Fenestex and Architalent. Arec 2025, held under Malaysia's Asean Chairmanship, will focus on modular construction, urban regeneration and sustainable infrastructure. Highlights include national pavilions from Austria, China, Korea, Singapore and Canada, Asean's first real-life workplace simulation, and talks on adaptive interiors and smart living. 'Malaysia continues to lead in building innovative, inclusive cities,' Nga said.
The Star
15-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Move to boost housing sector
Nga announces initiative at StarProperty Real Estate Developer Awards 2025 PETALING JAYA: Amid ongoing global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, the Housing and Local Government Ministry is taking proactive steps to safeguard the housing sector by developing the framework for Home Ownership Campaign 3.0, says Nga Kor Ming. The minister said this initiative aims to cushion potential economic impacts and sustain market confidence. 'With the national homeownership rate currently at 76.9%, we are committed to supporting prospective buyers and preserving market stability,' he said in his opening speech at the StarProperty Real Estate Developer Awards 2025 last night. He said the initiatives would be unveiled in the lead-up to the Asean Real Estate Conference, scheduled from July 23 to 26. In an interview later, Nga shared excitement over Malaysia's candidacy for the UN-Habitat Assembly Presidency 2025–2029, with the outcome expected by May 30. He expressed confidence in Malaysia's diplomatic efforts and support from key countries. 'Winning this would be a world-class achievement, allowing us to shape global housing and sustainable development policies,' he said. Nga also highlighted the success of the ministry's Taskforce on Sick and Abandoned Private Housing Projects, which has rescued 1,044 projects nationwide, valued at RM100.1bil, benefiting nearly 125,000 homebuyers. 'This achievement underscores our dedication to addressing housing challenges and ensuring that homebuyers receive the homes they deserve,' he said. Nga noted that most of the PR1MA affordable housing projects, initially numbering 34, have been resolved, with only three remaining. 'I am confident that by the end of this year, PR1MA will have no more sick projects,' he added. Looking ahead, Nga said the ministry plans to take stern action against developers who tarnish the industry's reputation. Proud moment: Nga (centre), flanked by Chan and Wong in a group photo with the winners. — GLENN GUAN/The Star Commenting on the much-anticipated Urban Renewal Act, set to be tabled in Parliament on June 23, Nga urged political parties to not politicise the matter. 'We have seen dilapidated housing that is poorly maintained and unfit for settlement. If we politicise it, people will be at the losing end. 'We want to build not only liveable homes but liveable cities,' he said. Nga also called for reforms to ensure that funds from homebuyers are used solely for their intended projects. In his welcoming speech, Star Media Group (SMG) group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt expressed excitement as this year's StarProperty Real Estate Developer Awards took a unique twist by celebrating both current winners and revisiting past achievers. 'As part of the 10th anniversary celebration, StarProperty undertook a special initiative to revisit past Excellence Award recipients, reaffirming their commitments and validating the promises they made. This also gives due recognition to those who have stayed true to their original goals and visions,' he said. Chan said the initiative was made possible through the support of various industry organisations and associations, whose leaders and members generously dedicated their time and effort to visits across Peninsular Malaysia. 'I extend my heartfelt thanks to our panel of judges and the StarProperty team for their invaluable time and dedication in ensuring that the recipients remain truly deserving of their awards.' He added that the initiative also highlighted how the StarProperty Awards has grown from a simple awards ceremony into a lasting benchmark of excellence and commitment within the real estate industry. Chan also highlighted the renewed confidence in the real estate market, citing increased home sales and growing buyer assurance. 'In 2025, the property landscape is promising, with developers noting renewed interest and improving the long-standing property overhang issue, creating a more balanced market,' he said. Chan also pointed to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone as a catalyst for cross-border growth, further boosting industry optimism. This year, a total of 99 recipients across 38 categories are being honoured, alongside 13 Special Recognition Awards to mark the 10th anniversary. A prestigious award for Visionary Leader of the Decade, presented only once every 10 years, was given to Sunway Group founder and chairman Tan Sri Sir Dr Jeffrey Cheah KBE AO for his outstanding leadership and vision in the real estate sector. Also present were ministry secretary-general and PR1MA Corporation member Datuk Wira M. Noor Azman Taib, SMG chairman Tan Sri Wong Foon Meng, chief operating officer Lydia Wang and chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng. The event was organised by StarProperty Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SMG. The official beverage partners were Heineken Malaysia Bhd and For more information, visit
