Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction (MLMUPC), Say Samal, has called on housing developers to join forces with the government to ensure all Cambodians have access to affordable and decent homes. The appeal comes as part of a broader push to implement Prime Minister Hun Manet’s vision of improving living standards across the country.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Cambodia Investor Contractor and Architect Association (CICAA) conference in Phnom Penh, Samal emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector to achieve this goal.
“If three or four strategic partners work together to formulate policies, we can implement the Prime Minister’s vision and ensure comfortable homes and a decent living for all Cambodians,” Samal said.
The event also saw the signing of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between CICAA and several organizations, including the China Alumni Association of Engineering and Architecture of Cambodia, the Singapore Alumni Association of Cambodia, and the Cambodia Robotics Industry Development Association. These partnerships aim to foster innovation and expertise in Cambodia’s construction sector.
Affordable Housing: A National Priority
Samal’s remarks underscore the government’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for affordable housing, particularly as Cambodia transitions from a lower-middle-income to an upper-middle-income nation. Rising real estate prices, especially in urban centers like Phnom Penh, have made homeownership increasingly unattainable for many Cambodians.
During his visit to an affordable housing project developed by Borey Piphup Thmey, Samal highlighted the importance of private sector involvement in aligning with the government’s housing policies.
“The private sector has responded with high efficiency, building affordable housing that is suitable for the economic capabilities of individuals or families, enabling Cambodians to own their homes,” he said.
Private Sector Praises Government Efforts
Sam Soknoeun, President of SAM SN Group, praised the government’s efforts to promote affordable housing, calling it a “commendable policy” that aligns with Cambodia’s economic progress.
“As the country moves toward becoming an upper-middle-income nation, ensuring accessible housing for citizens is vital,” Soknoeun sadi. He emphasized that affordable housing not only improves living conditions but also provides security for families, contributing to poverty reduction.
However, Soknoeun acknowledged the challenges developers face, particularly the high cost of land in Phnom Penh, which complicates efforts to build low-cost housing.
“The development of affordable housing presents a significant market opportunity, but certain areas in Phnom Penh face challenges due to high land prices,” he said. Despite these hurdles, Soknoeun stressed that expanding homeownership—whether through affordable or high-end housing—plays a crucial role in improving living standards and reducing poverty.
Construction Sector Booms Amid Housing Push
The government’s focus on affordable housing comes amid a surge in construction activity nationwide. According to the MLMUPC’s annual report, 2,633 construction projects were approved in 2024, covering more than 10 million square meters and representing an estimated investment value of $4.33 billion.
This growth reflects both the demand for housing and the government’s efforts to create an enabling environment for developers. However, experts warn that without targeted policies to address land prices and financial accessibility, the dream of affordable housing for all may remain out of reach for many.
A Collective Effort for a Common Goal
Samal’s call for collaboration highlights the need for a unified approach to tackle Cambodia’s housing challenges. By leveraging the expertise and resources of the private sector, the government aims to create a sustainable housing market that caters to all income levels.
As Cambodia continues its economic ascent, the success of its affordable housing initiatives will be a key measure of its progress. For now, the government and private sector are working hand in hand to turn the vision of decent homes for all into a reality.
