Planning for urban growth: Nga addressing delegates at the 12th World Urban Forum in Cairo, Egypt.
PETALING JAYA: Public-private-people partnerships (4P) must be given a boost to foster sustainable urban development, says Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
Addressing international delegates at the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo, Egypt, he stressed the role of the private sector in enhancing the quality of urban life and achieving sustainable growth.
“Without the full participation of the private sector, we cannot deliver a better quality of life for our citizens,” Nga said in his keynote address at the WUF Business Assembly yesterday.
He said approximately 70% of global wealth was held in private hands, positioning the private sector as a crucial driver in realising sustainable urbanisation.
“Urbanisation will not be sustainable without your help,” he told the business delegates, highlighting the importance of collaborative investments.
Nga outlined Malaysia’s commitment to climate-resilient urban planning as a core aspect of sustainable development.
He called for green building practices and robust housing policies to mitigate environmental impacts while ensuring inclusivity.
“Through initiatives like the People’s Residency Programme, we are dedicated to providing affordable, quality housing, ensuring every Malaysian has a place to call home, regardless of their background or income level,” he said.
The Malaysia Pavilion, inaugurated by Nga at the forum, showcases contributions from 21 Malaysian partners, including the Selangor government, local authorities, private sector representatives and universities.
Nga said the pavilion exemplified Malaysia’s commitment to Madani Humanity Values, focusing on fostering communities that reflect the nation’s cultural diversity, creativity and resilience.
“With over 76% of Malaysia’s population living in urban areas projected to reach 80% by 2030, it is vital that our cities reflect the best of us – our culture, diversity, creativity and resilience.
“This vision goes beyond physical infrastructure; it is about creating communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging and has an equal opportunity to thrive, ensuring that we do not fall into the tale of two cities,” he added.
Nga urged member states to adopt Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) indicators as a foundation for financing and investing in urban development.
He called upon multilateral financial institutions to provide financing and grants that encourage private sector involvement in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The WUF, established by UN-Habitat in 2001, is a pivotal platform for global dialogue on sustainable urban solutions.
WFU12, which ends on Friday, is co-organised with the government of Egypt, drawing over 28,000 participants, including representatives from 84 countries, four heads of state, and more than 1,300 city leaders.
