KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 9): Timely and coordinated implementation will be the key test of Budget 2027, with infrastructure, investment and housing measures needing to translate into stronger connectivity, investor confidence and sustainable economic activity, according to Knight Frank Malaysia.
The property consultancy said the budget sends a positive signal for the real estate sector through its focus on connectivity, investment facilitation, housing accessibility and urban liveability.
It highlighted continued attention on strategic growth corridors such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and Bukit Kayu Hitam Sadao, as well as the progression of the East Coast Rail Link and other infrastructure projects nationwide.
“Infrastructure investments must translate into better connectivity, stronger investor confidence, and sustainable economic activity on the ground,” Knight Frank said.
The firm said allocations for industrial and high tech parks should support Malaysia’s positioning as a regional manufacturing and technology hub, pointing to initiatives in Penang, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Kedah.
It also highlighted the proposed Sibu Special Economic Zone, Melaka Centre of Excellence, Delapan Special Border Economic Zone and Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone as initiatives that could help attract international investment and talent.
In Kuala Lumpur, Knight Frank welcomed the RM400 million allocation to create 120 acres of new green spaces, as well as measures to preserve heritage assets and build 22km of covered walkways.
It said the conservation of the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and proposed covered walkways could provide further impetus for urban regeneration and the repositioning of older commercial buildings.
On housing, Knight Frank said Budget 2027 widens access to home ownership through new supply, financing support and lower transaction costs.
The measures include nearly RM1 billion for Rumah Mesra Rakyat and Program Residensi Rakyat, RM20 billion in housing financing guarantees under Syarikat Jaminan Kredit Perumahan for 80,000 first time homebuyers, and stamp duty relief for first homes priced up to RM750,000.
Knight Frank also welcomed stamp duty exemptions for rescue developers and original purchasers of abandoned housing projects, in line with the government’s target of zero abandoned projects by 2030.
“Overall, Budget 2027 provides a constructive platform for the property market. The next step is to ensure timely and coordinated implementation so that these initiatives can crowd in private investment and deliver lasting value to businesses and communities,” it said.