JEDDAH: It is no wonder that people in the Kingdom are looking for cheaper ways to construct homes, as conventional buildings are unaffordable to many.

Malaysian and German homes built using the Lightweight Construction Methodology (LCM) is a possible option, as a double story LCM villa costs less than SR150,000, according to a recent study published in Al-Madinah newspaper.

The LCM home was developed in Europe about 60 years ago and has been on the international market for 20 years. It is affordable because the technology does not require costly materials.

Abdullah Balubaid, director of the Talla International Co., which specializes in Malaysian and German style LCM houses, said he is waiting for the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization’s approval for the construction of LCM homes in the Kingdom.

“When we receive approval from the authorities we will showcase model houses for the public to see and be convinced of the high quality, low budget and other advantages of these houses,” Balubaid said.

On the other hand, traditional construction companies challenge the claim, arguing that such houses do not meet standard safety specifications and are unfit for living. “It’s actually a Latin American technique which cannot be adopted in the Saudi environment,” said Abdullah Al-Ammar, chairman of the Committee for Contractors at the Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

“Can you believe that a two-story villa could be built at SR150,000 unless they use cheap materials with scant regard for the safety,” he said.

He also denied that such buildings were being constructed in Dubai. “As far as I know Dubai Municipality denied approval for such constructions, even for labor accommodations,” he said.

He also accused some companies, which were denied licenses for Malaysian-style construction in Dubai, were attempting to obtain licenses in the Kingdom.

On the other hand, Abdul Munim Al-Niyazi, an urban developer, urged the authorities to approve the low budget homes so that people with average income could own their own houses.

He blamed Saudi contractors, who feared stiff competition from LCM companies, for denying the opportunity for LCM houses to be built in the Kingdom.