Astana Chemor Strengthens Affordable Housing Supply, Supports Perak’s Economic Growth
By: Zaki Salleh
IPOH – The Astana Chemor development is set to become a catalyst for the Perak state government’s efforts to provide more housing in emerging growth areas.
Strategically located near the Silver Valley Technology Park (SVTP) in Kanthan, the project is well positioned to support the area’s future development.
Astana Chemor is approximately 3 kilometres (km) from Klebang, 8km from Meru Raya, 10km from the North-South Expressway and Sungai Siput, and 12km from Ipoh.
Perak Menteri Besar, Saarani Mohamad, said the development reflects the state government’s commitment to delivering well-planned, comfortable and affordable homes in line with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda.
“SVTP is expected to attract RM14 billion in foreign and domestic direct investments over the next five to 10 years, while creating approximately 13,000 new job opportunities.
“This growth requires adequate housing and supporting infrastructure to meet the needs of residents in Chemor, Kanthan and Meru.
“Although the housing sector faces challenges due to rising construction costs and infrastructure development, the state government will continue to ensure that quality homes are offered at reasonable prices,” he said.
He was speaking during the handover ceremony of Rumah Perakku Astana Chemor Phase 1, which also included the official opening of a new bridge and the launch of Astana Chemor Phase 2.
The project, owned by the Perak Housing and Property Board (LPHP) and developed by Forte Emerald Sdn. Bhd., comprises a total of 184 housing units.
Of these, 114 units were completed under Phase 1, while the remaining 70 units in Phase 2 are open-market homes.
The Phase 2 single-storey terrace houses, featuring four bedrooms and two bathrooms, are priced from RM282,150.
The developer also constructed a new concrete bridge costing more than RM1.25 million to replace the old single-lane steel bridge that had served the community for over 50 years.
The new bridge is expected to improve accessibility, facilitate smoother traffic flow, and enhance the convenience and quality of life for local residents.
Meanwhile, Forte Emerald Sdn. Bhd. Director Nazrin Cheong Abdullah said the completion of Phase 1 marked a significant milestone as it involved the construction of Perak’s first double-storey low-cost housing project.
“In response to the state’s housing policy requirements in early 2022, Forte Emerald accepted the challenge despite being fully aware of the high construction costs involved.
“With a built-up area of approximately 900 square feet, piling works, and rising building material costs, constructing a double-storey house with a selling price of RM90,000 was an enormous challenge.
“Nevertheless, we believe the people of Perak deserve better-quality homes, even within the low-cost housing category,” he said.
