PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA January 23, 2026 – In a move to refine urban development policies, the Malaysian Cabinet has officially withdrawn the Urban Renewal Bill 2025 (RUU Pembaharuan Semula Bandar 2025) to allow for necessary improvements. The decision, announced on January 23, comes after incorporating input from various stakeholders, including parliamentarians, to ensure the legislation better addresses the needs of sustainable urban redevelopment.
The bill, initially introduced for its first reading in the Dewan Rakyat, aimed to facilitate the planned, fair, and inclusive redevelopment of aging, dilapidated housing areas. Its goal was to promote public well-being and long-term urban sustainability. However, the second reading was postponed following calls from Barisan Nasional (BN) members and others for a thorough re-examination.
Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, the Unity Government’s spokesperson and Minister of Communications, confirmed the Cabinet’s consensus during a press briefing. “The Cabinet agreed to withdraw the bill for improvements, which will be examined, presented, discussed, and decided upon by the Cabinet at a later time,” Fahmi stated. He emphasized that the revised bill would be reintroduced in a new form to Parliament after further refinements.
Fahmi also highlighted that Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has received substantial proposals, particularly from UMNO representatives, with most expected to be integrated into the updated draft. “The new draft must be discussed by the Cabinet, which is expected to take time,” he added, noting that a briefing would precede submission to the Attorney General’s Chambers for legal review.
This withdrawal underscores the government’s commitment to collaborative policymaking, responding to concerns raised during initial debates. While no specific timeline for the bill’s reintroduction has been set, officials indicate it will prioritize inclusivity and equity in urban renewal efforts.
The move has been met with cautious optimism from urban planning experts, who see it as an opportunity to strengthen provisions for community involvement and environmental considerations in Malaysia’s rapidly growing cities.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments on this legislative update.
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