At the ASEAN-China Ministerial Roundtable on Construction and Housing 2026 in Ipoh, Malaysia, ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn highlighted the need for stronger regional partnerships, capacity building and innovative financing to advance sustainable urban development across ASEAN.
The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, participated in the Officiation Ceremony of the ASEAN-China Ministerial Roundtable on Construction and Housing (ACMROCH) 2026 in Ipoh, Malaysia. The ceremony was followed by an exhibition booth tour organised by Malaysia’s Ministry of Housing and Local Government, showcasing initiatives and innovations supporting sustainable urban development and housing across the region.
Addressing ministers, senior officials and delegates, Dr. Kao delivered a special message emphasising the importance of strengthening regional cooperation to build more sustainable, resilient and inclusive cities. He underscored the need to enhance capacity building, encourage city-to-city partnerships, and develop innovative financing mechanisms to support long-term urban development projects throughout ASEAN.
Dr. Kao noted that rapid urbanisation presents both opportunities and challenges for ASEAN Member States, making closer collaboration with China increasingly important. He stressed that sharing expertise, promoting knowledge exchange and mobilising investment would help improve the quality of housing, strengthen urban resilience and create more liveable communities for the region’s growing population.
The ASEAN-China Ministerial Roundtable brought together ministers and representatives from ASEAN Member States and China to discuss practical approaches to advancing sustainable cities, promoting quality housing and fostering cohesive communities. The forum reaffirmed the shared commitment of ASEAN and China to deepen cooperation in urban development while supporting regional sustainability goals and inclusive economic growth.
The event also provided a valuable platform for government leaders, policymakers and industry stakeholders to exchange best practices and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Through continued dialogue and partnership, ASEAN and China aim to accelerate the development of sustainable, people-centred cities that contribute to the region’s long-term prosperity.
Source: ASEAN
