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THE nation is making significant strides in sustainable and smart urban development, said Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Fadillah Yusof at the National Planning Congress (NPC) 2025 and MyCity Expo, held in conjunction with World Urban Planning Day.
“The collaboration between the Ministry of Housing and Local Government through PLANMalaysia and the Malaysian Institute of Planners demonstrates strong public-professional partnership in advancing national urban planning,” he said.
Fadillah noted that the inaugural event reflected a shared commitment to inclusive, high-impact urban development initiatives.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted Malaysia’s progress on the global stage, citing the nation’s rise to 23rd place in the World Competitiveness Ranking 2025 from 34th in 2024, the country’s recognition as the 13th safest globally in the Global Peace Index 2025, and Kuala Lumpur’s leap to 65th place in the Smart Cities Index.
“These achievements show that the Malaysia MADANI approach, which balances economic growth, social justice, environmental sustainability, and digital transformation, is yielding tangible results,” he added.
He also acknowledged the vital role of urban planners and city managers.
“With hard work, meticulous planning, and sound governance, you have ensured our cities are orderly, inclusive, and balanced.
“This year’s theme, ‘Urban Renewal: Planning Agenda for the People,’ reiterates that urban planning must deliver direct benefits to citizens,” he said, highlighting the NPC 2025 session, Making Cities
Fadillah siad that the Malaysia Urban Planning Award 2025 would honour outstanding contributions in sustainable cities, smart townships, and exemplary urban planning practices.
An Honorary Fellow award by the Malaysian Institute of Planners would also recognise exceptional figures who have advanced urban development and governance.
“True success in renewing our cities cannot be achieved by government alone. It requires collective effort across the public, private, and community sectors. By leveraging smart technologies and real-time data, urban planning can deliver responsive benefits to the people,” he said. - October 28, 2025
