Titijaya Land Bhd is moving ahead with plans to revive an abandoned Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) student hostel development through the proposed acquisition of two strategic property assets in Kota Kinabalu for RM105 million.
In a statement on Monday, the property developer said the purchase — originally announced in May — will see Titijaya stepping in as the white knight to rescue the long-delayed Blocks B1 and B2 of the UMS Numbak student residential complex. The project has been left idle for several years, leaving UMS with a shortage of on-campus accommodation.
Titijaya group managing director Datuk Lim Poh Yit said the appointment underscores the company’s commitment and track record in rehabilitating distressed developments in the state.
“This marks our third successful intervention in Sabah involving abandoned or ailing projects. We are honoured to be entrusted with the responsibility of delivering a long-awaited solution for UMS students,” Lim said.
He added that the revived development will focus on providing safe, comfortable and cost-effective housing, catering to the university’s growing population. UMS currently hosts more than 18,000 students, but available on-campus rooms remain limited, prompting the need for a sustainable accommodation plan.
The project is also being positioned as a model for private-public collaboration, combining government support, industry expertise and institutional needs to accelerate social and economic benefits for the community.
On Saturday, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir visited the stalled project site together with UMS vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor and senior executives from Titijaya. The visit signalled renewed federal backing for the project’s resumption, as well as confidence in Titijaya’s capability to bring the long-stalled development back on track.
Once completed, the revived Blocks B1 and B2 are expected to improve student welfare, ease housing constraints and enhance UMS’ campus facilities to support future enrollment growth.
