Root cause approach to explore policy options for improving low-cost housing provision in Malaysia

ABSTRACT Since 1982, the Malaysian Government and private housing developers have been providing low-cost housing (LCH) yet the scarcity of houses is on the increase. This paper investigates the root cause and explores possible policy options for improving Malaysian LCH provision via an unexplored dimension. First, findings from the oral interviews via qualitative approach were tested and analysed at the quantitative phase. The ‘quantilised findings’ were further validated by the Malaysian LCH policymakers. Findings confirm lax state LCH policy across the states. The study found lack of data sharing, some developers evade construction of LCH, relaxed state policy that allows developers to construct LCH, among others as the root cause of lax state LCH policy. The study proffered some recommendations and this will bring to the front burner new openings such as cumulative ruling, joint task force, among others for further study as part of the theoretical contribution to knowledge advancement.