This article features insights from IQI real estate negotiators from different cities in Sarawak; Lester Anak Surai, Jamie Tiew, Eva David and Afza Shalqimie to assist investors in grasping the current trends in the area.
When you think of Sarawak, what comes to mind? You might picture rural landscapes, rich cultures, and stunning nature.
Yet, Sarawak—the largest state in Malaysia—is rapidly transforming into a centre infrastructure and economic progress. A shift that significantly increases the value of real estate.
Situated on Borneo Island and driven by sectors such as tourism, oil, gas, and timber, Sarawak’s economy is undeniably emerging as a significant player both nationally and globally, positioning it as an appealing choice for property investors.
Cities like Kuching, Miri, Sibu, and Bintulu are seeing many local and international buyers eager to explore the region’s affordable and promising housing market.
From the growth of infrastructure and education hubs to exciting events, here’s how Sarawak’s property is drawing tourists globally.
What to know about Sarawak property?
- 1. What’s the current property market like in Sarawak?
- 2. Why do people buy / invest in Sarawak?
- 3. What’s the investment trend like in Sarawak?
- 4. Which areas identified as Sarawak’s hotspots?
- 5. What’s the demand difference between project and sub-sale?
- 6. The misconceptions on Sarawak’s property market
- 7. Advice for people who want to invest in Sarawak
1. What’s the current property market like in Sarawak?
Landed home
Landed residential properties are undoubtedly experiencing the highest demand in Sarawak. IQI Kuching Real Estate Negotiator, Lester anak Surai, observed a rise in property demand in the area.
This includes single individuals and newly married couples looking for homes, showing an increasing interest in landed houses as the year goes on.
Reasons being, most landed houses in Sarawak are considered ‘affordable‘, thanks to the government’s Rumah Sri Pertiwi initiative which allows buyers to purchase a landed house for between RM 270,000 to RM 290,000.
In contrast, the priciest single-story homes from private housing projects can reach around RM 400,000 or higher. Home buyers find these options attractive because they are affordable and have the potential to increase in value by about 10% each year.
This statement is also supported by IQI Bintulu Real Estate Negotiator, Afza Shalqimie bin Muhammad Arbi, who has been working in the field for 5 years.
He pointed out that many residents in Bintulu are families who want to settle in landed neighbourhoods as these areas offer greater convenience and a safer environment. Even those living alone tend to seek out landed properties.
Surprisingly, the property market is performing better now than before. We are seeing more people in Bintulu purchasing landed homes.”
Afza Shalqimie
Condominiums and apartments
In contrast, condominiums and apartments are becoming popular with investors who want to rent them out on Airbnb or lease them to students and workers.
Jamie Tiew, IQI Sibu Real Estate Negotiator with more than 21 years of experience, pointed out that these types of properties are especially appealing to investors.
Sarawak is becoming a hotspot for events and recreation, such as SUKMA Sarawak, Le Tour De Langkawi, Borneo Sonic Music Festival, and the upcoming Sukan SEA 2027. This trend boosts the demand for Airbnb rentals for tourists.
With annual events like these, hotels tend to fill up, and prices usually rise. Therefore, Airbnb becomes the best choice, attracting investors to grow their businesses.”
Jamie Tiew
2. Why do people buy / invest in Sarawak?
The rise of infrastructure, education opportunities and valuable events are one of the main reasons why people are looking to buy or invest in Sarawak.
The Pan-Borneo Highway, also known as Pan-Borneo Expressway, is a controlled-access highway on Borneo Island.
It stretches around 2,000 kilometers, linking the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as Brunei. This has made the previously difficult journey much easier.
The highway has also facilitated cross-border engagements, improving transport, trade, and tourism in the area. It enables Bruneian investors to explore opportunities in Sarawak’s property market and vice versa.
Other than that, Sarawak’s attractiveness is also bolstered by lower living costs, good traffic conditions, and its proximity to leisure destinations, including National Parks, Museum Galleries, and annual festivals that draw both locals and tourists to buy and invest in Sarawak.
While Sarawak’s property market resembles Kuala Lumpur, the key differences lie in the cost of living and superior work-life balance.
I have a property in Kuala Lumpur, and I’ve noticed that the competition in the property market is quite comparable, especially regarding lower rental yields.”
Jamie Tiew
3. What’s the investment trend like in Sarawak?
The increasing education options in Sarawak, especially in Kuching, made it simpler for investors to start rental or Airbnb businesses for college students.
Kuching is home to several leading universities and hospitals, including Institut Jantung Negara, UiTM 1, UiTM 2, UNIMAS, and Hospital UNIMAS.
Because of this, many students and parents are likely to either assist in finding a place to live or seek investment opportunities for a second home.
I have some buyers interested in buying a condominium unit in Kuching for their children who are studying there. When the child graduates, the whole family can stay over and use that home instead of paying for a costly hotel. This is quite interesting.”
Lester Anak Surai
In Sibu, the city has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its natural attractions and unique local experiences. This growth in tourism has led to increased demand for accommodation related services, mainly Airbnb.
4. Which areas identified as Sarawak’s hotspots?
Miri’s rising population is boosting growth in important cities like Senadin, Permyjaya, Lutong, and Taman Tugu, resulting in more property activities.
Eva David, an IQI Miri Property Consultant, stated that the rise in population due to economic growth, migration, and natural increase is leading to a steady demand for housing and related services.
The demand for housing in these cities is on the rise. There are many types of properties, both residential and commercial, giving buyers and investors various flexible choices.”
Eva David
In Kuching, Samarahan is the hotspot for both property buyer and investor. Almost 80% of property demand in Kuching would likely be around Samarahan, as the area is high in job opportunities as well as educational hubs like UiTM 1, UiTM 2, and UNIMAS.
Other than that, the easy transportation access such as Autonomous Rail Transit (ART) Kuching, making it easier for them to get around Kuching now.
Most of what people are looking for are in Samarahan; hospitals, universities and job opportunities. These significant factors contribute to the rapid increase in property values in Sarawak.”
Lester Anak Surai
5. What’s the demand difference between project and sub-sale?
Sarawak is not completely dismissing sub-sales, but they are not focusing on it as a priority. The people of Sarawak are very interested in new housing projects.
These properties usually offer modern features, warranties, and an appealing financing options, which attract buyers.
Moreover, Sarawak is a large state with urban growth, which means it has more land for new developments than areas with high population density. This allows for a steady flow of new property ideas and projects.
6. The misconceptions on Sarawak’s property market
It’s a common misconception that Sarawak’s property market is solely focused on rural areas. While Sarawak does have a significant rural population and beautiful countryside, its urban centres are experiencing substantial growth and development.
Besides their stunning natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and adventure activities, Sarawak has become a popular tourist destination, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
Not just solely focusing on leisure and entertainment, Sarawak is a major player in Malaysia’s oil and gas industry, providing a significant boost to its economy.
And the state’s abundant forests have made timber a valuable resource, contributing to its economic development.
These factors contribute to the boosting of Sarawak’s property growth. With more infrastructure being developed and economic growth happening in the state, the property market is thriving.
7. Advice for people who want to invest in Sarawak
All the agents had one common point: research the type of property you want.
There are countless options for buying and investing in property, but with the right research and by understanding your target market, you can save both time and money.
Regarding finances, they emphasised the importance of money management. Only purchase a property if you can afford it, not the other way around. If your savings aren’t quite there yet but you’re eager to buy, consider options that provide some flexibility.
For investors, it’s important to clarify your goals. Are you interested in catering to students through rentals or Airbnb? Or are you looking to provide accommodations for travellers? In summary, always conduct your research and understand your audience.
In summary, Sarawak is emerging as a highly desirable property destination in Malaysia.
Whether you are looking to purchase a new home or invest in Airbnb for tourists and students, the rich land of Sarawak, coupled with significant infrastructure development, is sure to yield substantial advantages.
Based in Kuching, Lester Anak Surai, has two years of experience in real estate and has recently been recognised as IQI Top Project Performer for the Kuching area. For more information, follow Lester’s Property Facebook page.
Based in Sibu, Jamie Tiew boasts over 21 years of expertise in the real estate field, consistently earning awards and accolades from IQI each year. Stay up to date with Jamie by following her Property Facebook Page.
Based in Miri, Eva David joined IQI in 2022 and has been honoured with the Champion Top Regional Project Sale Performance award. If you’re interested about property in Sibu, connect with Eva on her Property Facebook Page.
Based in Bintulu, Afza Shalqimie balances his role as an IQI real estate negotiator and financial advisor for the Sarawak community, for eight years. He has actively received the IQI Top Performers Project & Subsales awards from 2020 to 2024. Follow Afza’s Property Facebook Page.
You’ve discovered the key factors that position Sarawak as a prime property investment opportunity! With its infrastructure development, educational hubs and exciting events, now is the perfect time to connect with our experts to explore your property purchasing options.
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