U Thein Sein said low-cost housing developments, similar to those in Yangon and Mandalay, would be launched in Mawlamyaing, Monywa, Magway, Pathein, Sittway, Taunggyi and Taungoo.

“In accordance with urban and rural development projects, low-cost housing will be within the reach of the public," he said.
 
In a response to the speech, Yangon regional hluttaw MP Dr Nyo Nyo Thin (Independent, Bahan constituency 2), said the government should consider introducing a housing rental scheme because many of those in need of low-cost housing might find the cost of buying property prohibitive.

Political commentator U Kyaw Lin Oo told Mizzima the decision to provide more low-cost housing was a timely move by the President and if delivered in a fair and transparent manner could win him support ahead of the general election due last next year