NPC 2024: A call for reimagined cities and improved quality of life

• Climate change poses a significant threat to cities worldwide, with experts warning of increased risks from sea-level rise, flooding, heatwaves, and air pollution. To mitigate these challenges, town planners must prioritise sustainable urban development and climate adaptation strategies.

PUTRAJAYA (Oct 30): Town planners were urged to foster a sustainable and resilient urban future by reimagining cities and creating new opportunities for economic growth and improved quality of life. This call was made at the National Planning Congress (NPC) 2024 held in Putrajaya yesterday.

DPM pushes for addressing rural-urban migration in urban planning

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof emphasised that urban planning is not merely about physical or spatial development, but rather about building inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities.

“Undoubtedly, climate change and the challenge of managing it, along with the mobility of the people and increasing urban congestion due to rural-urban migration are matters that urban planners must emphasise.

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“How can we ensure sustainability, ease of mobility, and ultimately provide well-being for the people to ensure not only a healthy, sustainable, and resilient city but also a liveable one? This is the challenge for urban planners,” Fadillah said.

In her welcome remarks, Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP) president Datin TPr Hjh Noraida Saludin introduced the theme for this year's congress "Urbanism Next 3R+". NPC 2024 emphasises a holistic approach to urban development, focusing on reimagining, reinventing, revitalising, and reconnecting the cities.

“This initiative is crucial for advancing Malaysia's urban planning in line with global trends. By promoting innovative development strategies, we aim to position Malaysia as a leading force in urban planning,” Noraida added.

Country is confronted with an ageing population, says PLANMalaysia

In a keynote address, Department of Town and Country Planning (PLANMalaysia) director general TPr Dr Alias Rameli, outlined a vision for Malaysia's urban future.

According to Alias, Malaysia is undergoing significant urban transformation, with over 75% of its population residing in urban areas. The government aims to manage this growth sustainably by targeting a maximum urbanisation rate of 25% by 2040. Additionally, the country is confronted with an ageing population, with a substantial portion of the population over 60 years old.

He underscored that PLANMalaysia is expanding its scope to include marine areas, acknowledging their crucial role in sustainable development. The organisation is also developing comprehensive planning guidelines to address various urban and regional issues, from inclusive spaces to climate change resilience and economic growth.

Addressing climate change and urban resilience

In a keynote address, University of Canberra emeritus professor Barbara Norman emphasised the urgent need to address global climate challenges, such as wildfires, heavy rainfall, and droughts. She advocated for avoiding development in disaster-prone areas.

Cardiff University's professor Alison Brown also underscored the severe climate risks facing cities and urged planners to implement adaptation measures to mitigate urban flooding and heat stress. “Redesigning infrastructure ensures sustainable drainage, so that our water is recycled and feeds back into the groundwater,” she said.

Affin Bank and MIP partner for exclusive credit card

Affin Bank Bhd has teamed up with MIP to introduce the AFFIN AVANCE™ MIP Affiliate Credit Card/-i. The card, launched at the conference, is tailored to the specific needs of MIP members.

Key features of the AFFIN AVANCE™ MIP Affiliate Credit Card/-i include:

• Lifetime annual fee waiver.
• Earn 5x AFFIN rewards points for weekend transactions.
• Earn 1x AFFIN rewards points for weekday transactions.
• Enjoy a 0% fixed payment plan (FPP) for up to 24 months on purchases of RM3,000 or more in a single transaction.
• MIP logo affixed on the card.

NPC is an annual event hosted by the MIP. This congress emphasises the crucial role of effective urban planning in creating sustainable and liveable spaces where people can thrive. Edgeprop.my joins the NPC as a supporting media partner.

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