Cover From humble beginnings in Kota Bahru to championing unity in diversity, Nga Kor Ming opens up about the values that shape him today
From humble beginnings in Kota Bahru to championing unity in diversity, Nga Kor Ming opens up about the values that shape him today
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Minister of housing and local government, Nga Kor Ming shares the personal experiences and guiding principles that have shaped him, revealing the thoughtful man behind politician
Nga Kor Ming is often known for his dedication to public service, his role as Malaysia’s Minister of Housing and Local Government, and his impassioned speeches. But beyond the political arena, Nga is a man deeply shaped by his upbringing, values, and belief in social justice. We speak to him as he opens up about the experiences that moulded him, the passions that drive him, and the simple pleasures that define his life away from the public eye.
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Nga’s story begins in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, where he was born into a multicultural environment that has had a lasting impact on him. He emphasises the importance of Malaysia’s diversity as a cornerstone of his personal beliefs.
“The greatest asset of our country is the racial harmony and unity among the multiracial society,” Nga shares. Despite attending a Chinese school, he immersed himself in the wider Malaysian culture, studying Islamic studies and Malay literature— subjects he excelled in during his STPM.
For Nga, this background became the foundation of his unwavering belief in unity through diversity, a principle he carries with him into his political career.
Above Nga is also the MP for Teluk Intan, Perak
Nga is also the MP for Teluk Intan, Perak
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Before entering politics, Nga had a clear path in mind—law. He speaks passionately about his dream of becoming a lawyer, a profession that aligns with his desire to uphold justice. “If you want to fight for the less privileged, the best avenue is the courts. The judiciary is there to uphold justice, and law is the fountain of justice,” he reflects. While politics eventually became his platform for advocacy, Nga remains grounded in the values of fairness and compassion that he cultivated as a young lawyer.
Above Nga's background is in law,
Nga's background is in law,
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The same sense of justice drives his career in politics. As a self- described social democrat, Nga aims to address inequality and uplift the marginalised, working toward a society where all Malaysians have a place under the sun. He refers to Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities, emphasising the need for inclusive development over stark divides between the rich and poor.
Despite the pressures of public office, Nga maintains a commitment to balance and mindfulness in his daily life. He wakes up each morning for a 5-kilometre run, a habit that keeps him physically fit and mentally focused. This discipline, he says, is one of the keys to managing the stress and demands of his role. “You need to learn to manage four things very well in life: stress, diet, exercise, and sleep,” he advises, adding that a clear conscience helps him find peace and rest each night.
Above Nga visiting locals (Photo: Instagram/@ngakorming)
Nga visiting locals (Photo: Instagram/@ngakorming)
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Family is another pillar in Nga’s life. As a father of three children who are studying abroad, he remains closely connected to them, often exchanging thoughts and ideas. His son’s interest in debating—a skill Nga honed as a young man—is a source of pride for him. Despite their busy schedules, they find time to catch up almost daily, maintaining a bond that transcends distance.
Nga also shares a special relationship with his 85-year-old father, who was once his school’s discipline master. Their interactions have evolved from the days when Nga avoided crossing paths with him at school to a warm friendship. “Now, my father is no longer just my father but also a good friend,” Nga shares with a smile.
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A simple man at heart
Above Nga shows the achievements that his ministry has made throughout his tenure
Nga shows the achievements that his ministry has made throughout his tenure
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Though he occupies a high-ranking position, Nga remains a humble and approachable figure. He fondly recalls his time as a deputy speaker when his bodyguard remarked on his preference for simple eateries over fancy restaurants. “You can usually find me at a coffee shop somewhere,” he says, appreciating the candid conversations and insights from everyday Malaysians he meets there. This grounded approach is part of why he holds
his current role as minister of housing and local government close to his heart. For him, the job offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. “It’s a dream job. Just imagine the joy when we complete a new home and hand over the keys to the buyers. You know how happy they are. It’s a dream come true for them, and you help them realise it.”
Above Nga visiting locals when visiting Penang (Photo: Instagram/@ngakorming)
Nga visiting locals when visiting Penang (Photo: Instagram/@ngakorming)
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As a fourth-generation Christian and a Methodist, Nga’s faith is also a significant part of his life and work. His guiding principle is simple yet profound: “Fear God. Whatever you do, you have to make sure your conscience is clear.” He speaks of his faith as a source of strength, one that allows him to serve with integrity and empathy.
One story that stands out involves his legal advocacy for a pregnant woman who stole milk powder out of desperation. Nga took on her case pro bono, arguing that while the law demanded punishment, it should also consider the context and humanity behind her actions. “The law must not just be fair but also humane,” he insists, sharing the sense of fulfilment he felt in helping her avoid imprisonment during such a vulnerable time. This commitment to kindness and fairness continues to shape his approach as a leader.
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Above Looking ahead, Nga remains hopeful for the future of the country
Looking ahead, Nga remains hopeful for the future of the country
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When asked about his vision for Malaysia’s future, Nga’s response is straightforward yet ambitious: happiness. “We want Malaysia to be a happy country. It will be meaningless if we become a wealthy nation, but yet our people are not happy,” he explains. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains hopeful that the country can move toward a higher happiness index by focusing on the well-being of all citizens.
At his core, Nga stands as a man of principle and empathy, balancing his demanding role in government with a dedication to
family, faith, and personal integrity. His journey from the simple days of riding a bicycle to renting tapes at a local video shop in Kota Bharu, to becoming a key figure in Malaysian politics, is a testament to his belief in unity, justice, and the human connection.
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Photography: Fady Younis
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Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
