KUALA LUMPUR: The relevant agencies should speed up the implementation of approved development projects in the capital, including those under the newly launched Kuala Lumpur Structure Plan 2040 (PSKL2040), says the Prime Minister.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said among the biggest challenges were the efficiency and speed of approval once a decision was made on a project.
He also ordered Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to prepare, within two weeks, the necessary periodic report on the implementation status of projects under PSKL2040.
“I told the KL mayor that within two weeks, I want to see the report involving the implementation of our decisions.
“If not, it will be delayed until next year. This is because some people said that half of December, people will go on leave.
“If you want to go on leave, it is fine. But at the same time, in December there must be periodic reports,” said Anwar in his opening address at the launch of PSKL2040 yesterday.
PSKL2040 is a comprehensive framework that considers the current situation and future plans including climate change, economic development, demography, lifestyle and infrastructure.
Anwar added that although at this stage the efficiency of project implementation within the country seemed to be at a “good level”, the speed of project approvals could be further improved.
He said civil servants needed to be given additional exposure and training on planning and methods for addressing issues related to project implementation in specific areas.
“One of our challenges is the speed of approval once a decision has been made. Yes, we have negotiated and examined it, but there is a problem with us being slow in approving (projects) not only in Kuala Lumpur but throughout the country.
“The speed of approval after making decisions is crucial. Problems arise when we delay the approval.
“This is what is referred to as the ease of doing business, meaning the speed of approval after taking into account all regulations and scrutinised before approval is given,” he noted.
He said PSKL2040 must also take into consideration the latest demands and considerations of current times, such as the importance of energy transition, green sustainability and issues pertaining to electric vehicles, among others.
“All the new plans and framework structures that we agreed upon can be continued, but ... they must have an added value.
“This includes making it more people-friendly and ensuring it is more inclusive,” said Anwar.
He also lauded DBKL and its team for their preparedness to accommodate various views including those from non-governmental organisations, lawmakers, political leaders and the public.
“And this plan that had just been launched, it is not ‘carved’ in stone, not like a holy book.
“There is still room for criticism and we will make suitable adjustments based on current needs,” assured Anwar.
The full draft of PSKL2040 will be publicly displayed in the first quarter of next year.
