MALAYSIA PRIORITISES GREEN ECONOMY, SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN URBAN DEVELOPMENT PLANS - NGA

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 6 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is committed to advancing the green economy, developing new energy sources, driving industrial upgrades, promoting a circular economy and simultaneously developing people-centric housing programmes to lead the country toward sustainable development.

In a national statement at the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF) in Egypt, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming reaffirmed Malaysia’s steadfast commitment to shaping a sustainable, people-centric urban future amid rapid urbanisation.

Speaking before an international audience of policymakers, Nga highlighted Malaysia’s resolve to address the challenges of urban growth including overcrowding and housing affordability issues.

“Like many nations, Malaysia is experiencing rapid urbanisation, with over 80 per cent of the population expected to live in urban areas by 2030.

“To advance social equity and avoid the tale of two cities, we must ensure that all citizens, particularly the low- and middle-income households, have access to affordable, quality housing,” he said in the statement which was made available to Bernama.

The 12th WUF, convened by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is being held in Cairo from Nov 4 to Nov 8.

In line with the goals outlined in the 12th Malaysia Plan, Nga added that his ministry has set a target to provide 500,000 affordable housing units by the end of next year, having already achieved 89 per cent of the target as of September 2024.

He added that the newly-rebranded People Residency Programme not only emphasises affordability and livability but also incorporates green technologies and energy-efficient designs.

Beyond housing, Nga also underscored the government's broader vision to enhance urban quality of life by creating more green spaces, and the aim to build and upgrade 1,000 public parks over the next decade, with 100 parks to be completed or refurbished each year.

“We are aiming to build and upgrade 100 public parks next year to promote green spaces and enhance mental health, particularly in fast-paced urban areas,” he said.

Furthermore, Nga shared that the government’s New Urban Agenda (NUA) is also gaining momentum, with the upcoming Urban Renewal Act (PSB) set to revitalise dilapidated urban areas.

With 534 potential redevelopment sites identified across Peninsular Malaysia with a total gross development value (GDV) at RM355.3 billion, the act is designed to streamline and accelerate urban regeneration efforts by lowering the consent threshold for redevelopment.

-- BERNAMA