Leaders of the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB) called on Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher on Tuesday, seeking stronger government cooperation to develop the country's housing sector and ensure affordable homes for ordinary citizens.

The courtesy call, held at the minister's office, saw wide-ranging discussions on the current challenges facing the real estate sector, the investment climate, and ways to make housing accessible to the general public.

REHAB leaders pressed for policy-level support to sustain the sector's long-term growth. Narayanganj-1 Member of Parliament (MP) Mostafizur Rahman Bhuiyan (Dipu) and Housing and Public Works Secretary Md Nazrul Islam were also present at the meeting.

REHAB President Dr Ali Afzal said the housing sector remains a significant contributor to the national economy, but is currently under strain due to policy complexities, high construction costs and financing constraints.

“We are hopeful that with effective government cooperation, the sector will gain fresh momentum and it will be possible to ensure affordable housing for ordinary people,” he said.

He also stressed that long-term policy support and expanded access to easy-term financing are essential if the sector is to move forward in a planned and sustainable manner.

Minister Taher assured that the government is committed to the sector's advancement and has already taken up several initiatives in that direction.

“Through coordinated efforts with REHAB, a modern, sustainable and people-friendly housing system will be established,” he said, adding that the government will continue to provide necessary policy support to ensure affordable housing for the common people.

Both sides concluded the meeting expressing optimism about working together to drive meaningful progress in Bangladesh's housing sector.