Jakarta. Minister of Housing and Settlements Maruarar Sirait on Thursday officially scrapped a controversial plan to reduce the minimum size of subsidized homes to just 18 square meters, following strong public criticism and backlash from lawmakers.

Speaking during a hearing with the House of Representatives’ Commission V, which oversees infrastructure and housing, Maruarar acknowledged receiving extensive feedback from various stakeholders and admitted the idea had sparked unnecessary controversy.

“I offer a public apology and hereby withdraw the proposal. Thank you,” Maruarar told lawmakers. “Perhaps the idea wasn’t quite right, even though it was well-intentioned. We still have a lot to learn -- public policy ideas must be better prepared before being introduced.”

Maruarar said the proposal was originally intended to address the aspirations of many young people who want to live in urban areas but are unable to afford the soaring land prices.

“The intention was simple. We’ve heard many young people express a desire to live in the city. But land in urban areas is expensive, and if they’re okay with smaller homes, why not?” he explained. “Still, I’ve taken into account the many inputs we’ve received, including from members of Commission V, and decided to cancel the plan.”

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