The Role of Federalism in Malaysian Low-Cost Housing Provision: The Unexplored Dimension

Various studies have examined federalism in the context of housing provision around the globe. In Malaysia, the tension between the federal and state governments with regard to low-cost housing (LCH) is yet to be explored. This article presents part of the results of a larger research that reveals the tension between federal and state governments with regard to the provision of LCH through a qualitative approach. LCH targets set by the federal government which manifests in five-year economic plans should be met by the various states. To what extent do policy-makers consider the means with which the various states can meet these LCH targets? The states are expected to find the additional funds to deliver the LCH. Findings show there have been instances of a tussle over land and LCH provision between the federal and state governments. Other aspects of federalism which impact on LCH delivery are presented in this paper.