Research and development (R&D) activities by the relevant Government agencies and institutions of higher learning were carried out to enhance the production of cheap and efficient building materials to impart capital-intensive technology to save labourcosts, and to create more efficient housing systems. The private sector together with local institutions of higher learning also conduct their own research activities on housing design and production technology, in the effort to enhance the quality of houses at reasonable prices. These research activities resulted in alternative designs for medium-rise high density housing being introduced with certain improved features and characteristics to maximize land utilization.
As part of measures to improve R&D activities related to production of cheaper and more efficient building materials, the universities and the private sector also undertook R&D on better construction techniques and life-costing estimation of multi-storey housing. The Ministry of housing and Local Government in collaboration with institutions of higher learning conducted R&D on issues related to human settlement and urbanization. This included housing design and technology, especially technical research on alternative building materials as well as modular building systems.
Life Cycle Cost Design
THE life cycle cost approach to affordable housing and improving building performance comprises physical, social and economic criteria. The cost of a building is both the initial cost of completing the structure as well as the cost of support activities such as maintenance, component replacement, energy and cleaning required during the building’s designed life.
A key part of the life cycle cost approach is the development of relationships between the characteristic of the building and its use as well as the cash flows generated over time. Detailed estimations of cash flows during its construction phase as well as after its completion need to be computed. An affordable house is not one that cost the least initially but one that is most economic over its life span.
Such buildings must be constructed with the knowledge of the durability of materials and components used when exposed to a particular environment in order to guarantee the serviceability of the buildings for the intended period of use. This is of utmost importance to ensure residents of a safe and conducive living environment, which leads to a better quality of life.
CONCLUSION
The provision of affordable and quality housing will continue to be the priority of both the Government and the private sector. Concerted efforts will continue to be undertaken to meet the housing needs of the population with emphasis on increasing both accessibility and affordability as well as aesthetic and functional features of houses.
(MALAYSIA QUALITY OF LIFE 2004)
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