The National Planning Congress (NPC) 2024 is set to become a pivotal event, bringing together stakeholders and experts to explore innovative solutions for Malaysia’s urban challenges. As cities continue to grow, issues such as traffic congestion, housing affordability, and climate risks persist, making it crucial to find sustainable approaches to urban planning.
NPC 2024 will focus on bridging the gap between policy and practice, identifying practical steps to implement ambitious government plans. The event will delve into critical themes such as transit-oriented development (TOD), transportation, and urban sustainability under the congress’s central theme: “Urbanism Next 3R: Reimagine, Reinvent, Revitalise.”
Addressing the Gap Between Policy and Implementation
NPC 2024 convenor TPr Hj Ismail Muhamad, former director of the City Council Subang Jaya (MBSJ) City Planning Department, emphasized that Malaysia’s urban planning policies, while ambitious, often fall short in execution. He pointed out that urban development has historically been focused on car usage, reflecting the country’s thriving automobile industry, while neglecting the need for more sustainable transport options.
“A gap exists between policy and practice. Although policies to reduce air pollution are in place, many industries continue using outdated methods that do not meet environmental standards,” Ismail noted, adding that climate change remains an ongoing concern.
Making Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) a Reality
Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP) president Datin TPr Hjh Noraida Saludin highlighted the importance of transit-oriented development (TOD) in alleviating urban challenges, particularly traffic congestion. However, fragmented ownership of land around transit hubs has hindered coordinated development.
Noraida called for inter-agency cooperation and partnerships between local authorities and developers to address this issue. “Successful TODs, such as the Bangsar LRT station, demonstrate how effective collaboration can greatly benefit the public,” she said, adding that seamless pedestrian connectivity is vital for creating thriving, pedestrian-friendly environments around transit hubs.
Overcoming Malaysia’s Transportation Challenges
While Malaysia has implemented strategies to tackle urbanisation, there remains a significant gap in public transport usage. Datin TPr Hjh Mazrina Khalid, NPC 2024 deputy convener, pointed out that currently, only 24% of the population uses public transport, far from the government’s goals for 2030.
Mazrina highlighted issues like first and last-mile connectivity and safety concerns as major barriers to public transport adoption. “Improving public transport systems and enforcing stricter regulations are key to shifting Malaysians away from private vehicles,” she said.
Innovating for a Sustainable Urban Future: Key Themes at NPC 2024
Under the theme “Urbanism Next 3R”—Reimagine, Reinvent, Revitalise—NPC 2024 will focus on forward-thinking approaches to urban planning. Key sub-themes will include:
- Reimagining Housing for the Future: Exploring affordable, sustainable, and inclusive living options.
- Reinventing Smart Cities: Integrating technology to create resilient, efficient, and inclusive urban spaces.
- Placemaking for Urban Regeneration: Redesigning public spaces to revitalise communities.
Event Details
NPC 2024 will be held on October 29 at the Everly Hotel in Putrajaya. The congress will bring together local and international experts in urban planning, aiming to foster creative solutions that align with Malaysia’s vision for sustainable city development.
