KOTA KINABALU: Homebuyers in Sabah have a narrowing window to secure property at current prices, with new development costs expected to push property prices up by 10 to 15 per cent in the coming months, according to the Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (SHAREDA).
Speaking at the official press conference for SHAREDA Propex 2026, SHAREDA President Datuk Johnny Wong Chen Yee said ongoing disruptions to global supply chains have increased construction material costs by between 20 and 25 per cent, a burden developers would not be able to fully absorb.
“If you are thinking of buying property, do it now,” he said, noting that projects showcased at this year’s Propex are either completed or nearing completion and remain priced at current levels, unlike future launches that are expected to be more expensive.
Independent data presented by Sr Alexel Chen of Knight Frank Malaysia supported this outlook, showing that new launch prices across Malaysia are already trending upwards and could continue rising over the next two to three years.
Johnny also welcomed recent regulatory progress by the Ministry of Local Government and Housing (KKTP), including the passing of the Building Management Bill 2026 and the Land (Subsidiary Title) Bill 2026.
He said the legislation would help resolve long-standing issues involving land titles, strata management and ownership clarity.
He added that SHAREDA would continue advocating for greater transparency in contribution and infrastructure costs imposed by agencies such as Jabatan Air, SESB and JPPS, with the aim of passing cost savings on to homebuyers.
Meanwhile, Organising Chairman Wilson Loke said SHAREDA Propex 2026 will be the largest edition of the exhibition to date, featuring more than 80 booths showcasing projects with a combined value of RM4 billion.
For the first time, the exhibition will also include industry suppliers alongside property developers, making it a one-stop centre for all property-related products and services.
The three-day event will feature a series of public forums on July 11 from 1.30pm, covering topics such as feng shui and architecture, market and investment insights by Knight Frank and Belive, and green building certification by GreenRE.
A new Business Networking Session will bring together developers, bankers and industry players, while family-friendly activities include a colouring competition and a Young Investor Property Challenge for children.
Visitors will have opportunities to win prizes throughout the event, including flight tickets to Shanghai and Guangzhou, Sony speakers and headphones, as well as Starbucks hampers and vouchers.
Lucky draw sessions will be held on July 11 at 2.40pm and 4.45pm, and on July 12 at 4.55pm.
Property buyers who purchase a unit during Propex 2026 will also stand a chance to win a brand-new Proton eMas 5, subject to terms and conditions.
SHAREDA Propex 2026 will be held from July 10 to 12, 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), from 10am to 9pm daily.
