PETALING JAYA: Urban development must go beyond physical infrastructure construction by prioritising people's wellbeing, affordable housing, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability to create a higher quality living environment.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said that the success of a city's development should not be measured solely by physical advancement, but through the tangible benefits enjoyed by the community.

According to him, effective urban development requires visionary leadership, disciplined planning, and close collaboration among the government, local authorities, professionals, developers, and the community.

“Roads, bridges, buildings, and digital systems are merely instruments of development. The true purpose of development is to improve the daily lives of families and communities,” he said.

He said this while delivering a keynote address titled Leadership for Better Cities: Our Shared Responsibility in conjunction with the 11th National Planning Congress 2026 and World Town Planning Day 2026 at the Civic Hall, Petaling Jaya City Council, on Thursday.

The Sarawak Premier added that urban planning must take into account the daily needs of the people, including access to job opportunities, safe commutes to school, public facilities friendly to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (OKU), as well as homes located near basic amenities.

He noted that the Sarawak Housing Contribution Trust Fund (SHCTF) serves as one of the policy mechanisms supporting shared responsibility in providing affordable housing.

He also highlighted the role of digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and geospatial information systems in enhancing the efficiency of urban planning and management.

Also present were Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr. Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Mayor of North Kuching City Commission Dato Hilmy Othman, Mayor of Petaling Jaya City Council Dato Mohd Yazid Sairi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development Sarawak,Datu Abdullah Julaihi, and other guests. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Firdaus Materang
Photos: Shairazi
Translator: Ryan Lim