During the Creative Kuala Lumpur (KL) Grants Programme and Urban Challenge Award Ceremony on Monday, February 19, at Gamuda Mall Bukit Bintang, Think City’s managing director Hamdan Abdul Majeed highlighted the urgent need for Malaysian cities to offer authentic, local experiences beyond the conventional shopping malls and tourist attractions. Emphasizing Malaysia’s rich cultural potential, Hamdan proposed the transformation of Kuala Lumpur into a cultural and creative district, aligning with the objectives of the KL Creative and Cultural District (KLCCD) Strategic Master Plan.
In collaboration with Kuala Lumpur City Hall and The National Heritage Department, Think City developed the KLCCD Strategic Masterplan in 2019 to tackle urban challenges and pave the way for sustainable city development. The initiative has since been instrumental in revitalizing Kuala Lumpur, fostering a culture-centric economy, and enhancing the city’s liveability while attracting more visitors.
“With the allocation of RM20 million for urban rejuvenation in Budget 2024, Think City is committed to enhancing the quality of life in Kuala Lumpur and promoting the creative and cultural sectors through impactful programmes like the Creative KL Grants Programme and the Creative KL Urban Challenge,” Hamdan stated.
The grant programme recently celebrated its success by awarding eight applicants, three of whom received the grand prize of RM200,000 each, and five others were granted consolation prizes of RM40,000. These awards will fund projects aimed at innovating urban solutions, focusing on greening, accessibility, and sustainable waste management in downtown Kuala Lumpur.
Deputy Minister of Finance Lim Hui Ying, in her opening remarks at the ceremony, praised the Ministry of Finance’s involvement in these programmes that contribute to the rejuvenation of significant areas such as UNESCO World Heritage sites, Georgetown, and the creative cultural district of downtown KL. She underscored the importance of reviving cities to enhance residents’ quality of life, create inclusive income opportunities, attract more tourists, and facilitate the flow of foreign direct investments.
“These initiatives are vital for complementing the Madani economic framework and transforming downtown Kuala Lumpur into a vibrant and liveable city,” Lim Hui Ying added, highlighting the broader economic and social benefits of urban revitalization projects.
