National Council for Local Government Approves Guidelines for Low-Carbon and Climate-Resilient Urban Planning
The National Council for Local Government (MNKT) has agreed to approve guidelines for low-carbon and climate-resilient urban planning. The decision was made during the 85th MNKT Meeting, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and attended by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, state executive councillors, relevant federal ministers, and senior government officials.
Guidelines for Low-Carbon and Climate-Resilient Urban Planning
The guidelines will serve as a crucial document in addressing climate change in urban planning through the preparation of development plans, particularly the Local Plan (RT). The RT preparation process in the future will also be more implementable, based on the use of scientific data and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission information. This will further support the nation’s aspiration to achieve net-zero GHG emissions as early as 2050.
Community Service Orders for Minor Littering Offences
The meeting also agreed to implement community service orders for minor littering offences under the proposed amendments to the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing (Amendment) Act 2025, the Local Government (Amendment) Act 2025, and the Streets, Drainage and Building (Amendment) Act 2025. The implementation of community service orders aims to help the government curb and address minor littering activities while educating offenders to be more mindful of environmental cleanliness, reducing pollution and health risks. This sentencing measure also supports government policies under the 12th Malaysia Plan, the Solid Waste Circular Economy Blueprint, and the National Cleanliness Policy to ensure that cleanliness becomes a culture within society.
Improving Criteria for Upgrading Local Authorities (PBT)
In continuing urban planning that prioritizes sustainable development, the 85th MNKT Meeting also agreed to improve the criteria for upgrading local authorities (PBT). The proposal aims to refine the current PBT upgrading criteria as outlined in the Circular of the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Housing and Local Government No. 4 of 2008.
Streamlining Application Process for Establishing Private Hospitals and Foreign Artiste Performances
The meeting also took note of improvements to the application process for establishing private hospitals under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 [Act 586]. These enhancements by the Ministry of Health have reduced the application period from 24 months to just six months, benefiting all stakeholders. The 85th MNKT Meeting also acknowledged improvements in the approval process for foreign artiste performances under the concert category.
Conclusion
The decisions made during the 85th MNKT Meeting demonstrate the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable development, addressing climate change, and maintaining environmental cleanliness. These guidelines and criteria will play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban planning in Malaysia and contributing to the country’s goal of achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
FAQs
- What are the guidelines for low-carbon and climate-resilient urban planning?
The guidelines aim to address climate change in urban planning through the preparation of development plans, particularly the Local Plan (RT). - What is the purpose of implementing community service orders for minor littering offences?
The implementation of community service orders aims to educate offenders to be more mindful of environmental cleanliness, reduce pollution and health risks, and support government policies for a cleaner and more sustainable environment. - How will the criteria for upgrading local authorities (PBT) be improved?
The proposal aims to refine the current PBT upgrading criteria to promote sustainable development and ensure that local authorities are equipped to address the needs of their communities.