The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China are set to strengthen their long-standing cooperation in sustainable urban development as senior leaders gather for the 2026 ASEAN-China Ministerial Roundtable on Construction and Housing (ACMROCH) in Ipoh, Malaysia, on 1 August 2026. The high-level meeting is expected to serve as a key platform for advancing regional collaboration on housing, infrastructure, and city planning in response to the growing challenges of rapid urbanisation.

Leading the ASEAN Secretariat’s delegation will be Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, who is attending the event at the invitation of Malaysia’s Ministry of Housing and Local Government. His participation underscores ASEAN’s commitment to promoting resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable cities across Southeast Asia through stronger regional partnerships.

Held under the theme “Sustainable Cities, Quality Housing, Cohesive Communities,” the ministerial roundtable will bring together policymakers, government officials, urban planners, and development experts from ASEAN member states and China. Participants will exchange ideas and explore practical strategies for improving housing standards, enhancing urban infrastructure, and encouraging sustainable construction practices that support long-term economic and social development.

As cities across Southeast Asia continue to expand, governments face increasing pressure to provide affordable housing, efficient public services, modern transportation systems, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The roundtable aims to identify collaborative solutions that address these shared challenges while encouraging innovation in urban planning and smart city development.

One of the key highlights of the meeting will be Dr. Kao Kim Hourn’s special message focusing on the future of ASEAN-China cooperation in smart and sustainable urban development. His address is expected to emphasise the importance of integrating digital technologies, green infrastructure, and people-centred planning to create cities that are more efficient, resilient, and inclusive.

Smart city initiatives have become an increasingly important priority for many ASEAN countries as they seek to improve public services through digital transformation. Technologies such as intelligent transport systems, energy-efficient buildings, digital governance platforms, and data-driven urban management are helping cities enhance quality of life while reducing environmental impacts. ASEAN and China have been expanding cooperation in these areas through knowledge sharing, technical assistance, and joint development initiatives.

Housing remains another major focus of the ministerial discussions. With rising urban populations and growing demand for affordable homes, governments across the region are working to develop housing policies that balance accessibility, sustainability, and economic growth. The roundtable will provide an opportunity to exchange successful policy experiences and explore innovative financing, construction technologies, and planning approaches that can improve housing availability for future generations.

Climate resilience is also expected to feature prominently in the discussions. Southeast Asia is among the regions most vulnerable to extreme weather events, flooding, rising temperatures, and other climate-related risks. By promoting sustainable construction standards and climate-adaptive urban planning, ASEAN and China aim to strengthen the resilience of cities while supporting regional environmental goals.

The ministerial dialogue reflects the broader ASEAN-China partnership, which has expanded beyond trade and investment to include infrastructure development, digital connectivity, environmental sustainability, and people-to-people cooperation. Urban development has become a strategic area where both sides recognise the importance of coordinated action to support sustainable economic growth and improve living standards.

Malaysia’s role as host highlights its continued commitment to regional cooperation in urban planning and housing development. Ipoh, known for its balance of historical heritage and modern urban growth, provides an appropriate setting for discussions focused on creating cities that combine sustainability with quality living.

The outcomes of the 2026 ASEAN-China Ministerial Roundtable are expected to reinforce regional cooperation in construction, housing, and urban development while encouraging new partnerships that accelerate innovation, strengthen resilience, and promote inclusive growth. As Southeast Asia’s urban population continues to grow, collaborative initiatives such as ACMROCH are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping cities that are better prepared for future economic, environmental, and social challenges.