Indonesia’s new President, Prabowo Subianto, is wasting no time in implementing his campaign promises, with one of his standout goals being the construction of 3 million houses annually. This ambitious program is already drawing serious interest from major foreign investors, including companies from 3 “rich” countries, China, Dubai, and Qatar.
Iwan Suprijanto, Director General of Housing and Settlements, recently disclosed that Indonesia has received strong interest in the housing initiative from these three nations.
“It seems several countries are keen to support this program. The first interest came from China, then Dubai, and, if I’m not mistaken, Qatar as well,” Suprijanto said, speaking at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development Coordination Office on Wednesday night, November 7, 2024.
Representatives from the three nations are reportedly exploring formal agreements, with early discussions aimed at signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). However, the Ministry of Housing and Settlements is carefully reviewing the terms to ensure that the partnerships don’t become a financial burden on Indonesia’s state budget.
“We’re not yet certain about the exact framework, but interest has been shown, and there are MoU plans. Still, as a bureaucracy, we need to be cautious to avoid a situation where investment becomes a burden for the state or the people,” he clarified.
On the ground, preparations are well underway. Deputy Minister of Housing and Settlements is currently in China, actively discussing collaboration opportunities with Chinese counterparts to kick-start the program. Meanwhile, President Prabowo is planning his own visits abroad, where he intends to discuss housing matters among other key issues with various international leaders.
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“Right now, the Deputy Minister is in China. Later, the President will also be visiting several countries,” Suprijanto concluded.
The 3 million houses project is an integral part of Prabowo’s plan to improve housing access for low-income communities. The official launch of the program was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony in Sukawali Village, Pakuhaji District, Tangerang Regency, Banten, on November 1, 2024, attended by Housing and Settlements Minister Maruarar Sirait. This event symbolized the beginning of the government’s commitment to addressing the housing needs of the underserved, particularly low-income households (MBR).
Beneficiaries of the program will be selected from low-income groups, including junior-ranked military and police personnel, lower-level civil servants, low-paid teachers, and other eligible individuals without existing housing. Although recipients will be provided with ownership certificates, the government is still finalizing the details regarding the exact ownership structure.
