Kota Kinabalu (Jan 16) -Datuk Awang Ahmad Sah has officially taken on the role of Chairman of the Sabah Housing and Urban Development Board (LPPB). His appointment letter was handed over by State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif on Thursday.
Arifin said he is confident that Awang will continue to uphold LPPB’s mission and vision while further strengthening the Board’s capacity and effectiveness. Awang, who is also the Petagas assemblyman, has been entrusted with two main priorities: the development of new townships and the delivery of housing programmes, particularly for communities in need.
According to Arifin, Awang has been specifically asked to concentrate on expanding township development and addressing housing requirements, including assistance schemes for those who require support. While noting that not all housing-related issues fall directly under LPPB’s authority, Arifin stressed that the Board plays an important role in township planning and development across Sabah.
He also highlighted the need to boost the supply of affordable homes for low-income earners, alongside housing projects linked to commercial developments. Arifin added that several new township projects are either in the planning stage or already underway, with some existing areas earmarked for expansion and others still to be developed.
Kota Marudu was mentioned as one of the locations that already has a new township, along with several other areas, with further details to be shared by LPPB management at a later date. Datuk Masiung Banah previously served as LPPB Chairman.
For Sabahans, Awang’s appointment is significant as LPPB’s policies and projects directly affect access to affordable housing, township growth and long-term urban planning, particularly for low-income families and communities seeking better living conditions.