PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof today emphasized the need for a new approach to urban planning and development that goes beyond focusing only on physical and spatial growth.
Fadila, who is also Minister of Energy and Water Transition, stressed that urban development also includes building inclusive, sustainable and competitive communities.
He said Malaysia’s cities and metropolises can no longer be seen as just economic hubs, but must also focus on addressing climate change, population growth, technological progress and social equity.
“Our cities are currently highly affected by climate change and disasters, particularly flood risk, where the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transition (PETRA) has identified 5,648 flood hotspots across the country.” He made the remarks at the 2024 National Planning Council. Here we are today in 2024.
He said aging urban infrastructure needs to be modernized with advanced technology to meet the demands of the digital age.
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“With the development of smart cities, we are not only improving the quality of life, but also creating opportunities to design more connected, secure and responsive urban systems. “This is consistent with the principles of social justice and equality that have been established,” Fadila said.
He proposed revitalizing outdated and underdeveloped urban areas, making them more functional and attractive.
However, he stressed that the city’s rapid growth needs to be carefully planned to preserve the region’s cultural and historical heritage and community connections.
“We need to preserve our identity and cultural heritage in urban planning so that our cities reflect our identity. An inclusive urban renewal process needs to ensure that all strata of society are involved in this process.” he said.
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Mr. Fadilla called on all stakeholders, especially urban planners, to work together to build a bright future for the country through sustainable and inclusive urban planning and development.
“Remember, urban planning is about promoting. The role of every urban planner in the upcoming new era of the country’s development is very important,” he said.
