malaysian housing affordability: deciphering the black box

Housing affordability remains a concern for Malaysia and there is a growing mismatch between supply and demand. Affordability needs to be examined not just through the lens of price and income, but also the connectivity and access to amenities of af

Santha Vaithilingam is a Professor of Econometrics and Policy Modelling at Sunway University Malaysia. Her current research interest revolves around behavioral econometrics, using mathematical and statistical modeling to understand human behavior and the decision-making process. Her research work is also focused on developing good research instruments and using robust data analytics & advanced statistical tools to research technology, innovation, and economic policy modeling for enhancing sustainable economic development.

Mahendhiran S Nair is the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research Engagement & Impact) at Sunway University Malaysia. His research interests are in economic & technology policy modelling and development economics. Professor Mahendhiran has been a subject matter expert for government agencies, public policy organisations and ’think-tanks’ in Malaysia and the Middle East. He has led the formulation of several national economic & technology plans and studies for the Malaysian government and the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) secretariat. He is currently leading several studies for various ministries, government agencies and industry associations.

Dr. Jason Ng Wei Jian is Associate Professor, School of Mathematical Sciences, at Sunway University Malaysia. He is an econometrician and emerging data scientist focused on issues of national importance. His diverse research interests include the areas of subjective well-being, Malaysian housing affordability, ICT education in vulnerable communities, public health behavioural modelling, and also modelling Malaysian electorate behavioural dynamics.

Mr. Yeng Hong Qing is a senior research analyst at the Sunway Institute for Global Strategy and Competitiveness (IGSC) at Sunway University Malaysia. With 7 years of research experience in data analytics and modelling, his work has informed various policy recommendations and solutions. Hong has led the economic analytics and contributed to numerous national policy publications at the institute and other governmental agencies, such as the MySTIE 10-10 Framework, Science Outlook 2020, Study on Strengthening the Environmental Governance in Malaysia, and the National Water Sector Transformation 2040.