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THE Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) is open to constructive suggestions on the proposed Urban Renewal Act (URA), said Minister Nga Kor Ming, as the bill’s debate in the Dewan Rakyat is postponed to the upcoming parliamentary sitting in October.
“This is a government that listens and welcomes constructive opinion,” he said at the 16th International Conference on World Class Sustainable Cities 2025 (WCSC). “But we do not want parties taking advantage of the situation for political gain. That’s very unwelcoming. We want constructive politics, not destructive politics.”
Nga emphasised that sound recommendations will be considered for the benefit of all, particularly to safeguard the rights and interests of original homeowners impacted by urban renewal initiatives.
The URA Bill aims to provide a legislative framework for regenerating ageing urban areas in Malaysia. Its tabling has been closely watched, especially in light of concerns surrounding property rights, heritage preservation and displacement.
In line with these concerns, Nga reiterated that the MADANI Government remains firmly committed to respecting national heritage, even while pursuing urban development.
“This year, the government has spent RM700 million to revitalise seven national icons, including Carcosa Seri Negara, the Textile Museum, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the Old Kuala Lumpur Post Office,” he said. “These landmarks will be given a new lease of life in time for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. This is the best testimony that even as we plan development, we do not forget our history, heritage, culture and national identity.”
Nga also highlighted Malaysia’s global leadership in sustainable urban policy, particularly in his role as President of the United Nations Habitat Assembly.
“We aim to integrate the New Urban Agenda into the processes of the COP under the UNFCCC to strengthen the role of cities and regions,” he said. “The New Urban Agenda offers a comprehensive and legitimate framework to connect global climate ambitions with local transformation.”
He added that the agenda helps cities enhance local services, adapt to climate change, and mobilise financing for transformative projects.
Addressing the WCSC 2025 conference’s theme, ‘Resilient Cities, Living Heritage’, Nga called on all stakeholders to balance resilience with preservation.
“Let this conference be a gentle call to action for all of us – for policymakers to weave resilience and heritage into every urban policy, for industry to keep sustainability and cultural identity at the heart of every project, and for our communities to continue nurturing heritage as the living soul of our cities.”
The WCSC 2025 features international speakers, panel discussions and networking sessions with city leaders and urban visionaries, with a focus on integrating resilience and heritage in sustainable urban development. - September 30, 2025