Feb 1 will mark the 50th anniversary of the Federal Territories’ inception, with Kuala Lumpur being the first.
THIS year marks the golden jubilee of the formation of the Federal Territories.
The commemoration aligns with the 50th anniversary of Kuala Lumpur’s designation as a Federal Territory on Feb 1, 1974.
Subsequently, Labuan in 1984 and Putrajaya in 2001 were declared Federal Territories, each serving unique roles: Kuala Lumpur as the national capital, Putrajaya as the administrative capital or seat of government and Labuan as the international business and financial centre.
Over the decades, residents have witnessed and reaped the benefits of development spearheaded by the combined efforts of the government, private sector, industry players and the community.
In an exclusive interview with StarMetro, newly minted minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Federal Territories Dr Zaliha Mustafa shared the plans for the next 12 months to commemorate the historic event.
“The Federal Territories has come a long way since its inception in 1974.
“Its economic and physical successes often serve as a model for other states,” said Dr Zaliha.
“To commemorate this milestone, a series of programmes will unfold throughout the year across all three Federal Territories, reflecting the community’s aspirations and the theme ‘Wilayah Persekutuan untuk Semua’ (Federal Territories for All).
“We aim to include every city resident, regardless of their ethnic background, religion or economic status, to enjoy the benefits of a developed Federal Territory,” she said.
The programmes are a collaborative effort with various government agencies, corporate entities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and local communities.
They will focus on continuous welfare and well-being initiatives, particularly for the B40 and impoverished groups, embodying the Madani values of compassion, social justice and community support.
All programmes (see graphic) are carried out in collaboration with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Putrajaya Corporation (Ppj), Labuan Corporation, Federal Territory Sports Council, Kampung Baru Development Corporation (PKB) and the Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur Land and Mines Office (PTGWP) in partnership with the Federal Territory Department (JWP),
Dr Zaliha says the theme of the celebrations is ‘Federal Territories for All’.
KL: Heart of the nation
“As the capital, Kuala Lumpur continues to address challenges in urban management, the environment and social issues,” said Dr Zaliha.
“It remains a major economic contributor and a hub for innovation and technology, with projects like Kuala Lumpur Innovation Centre (KLIC) and Warisan Merdeka Tower attracting creative and technology sectors.
Kuala Lumpur’s progress is evident in its excellent infrastructure.
“The city’s progress is evident in its infrastructure.
“It is also a focal point for business investment, significantly contributing to the country’s economic growth.
“The city is a key contributor to the nation’s economy with a 15.9% GDP contribution, equivalent to RM239.8bil in 2022.”
Dr Zaliha said the progress of Kuala Lumpur was also reflected in its infrastructure development.
Public transportation systems like MRT and LRT have transformed Kuala Lumpur’s transport landscape, providing better accessibility for residents and visitors.
The progress and prosperity of Kuala Lumpur does not solely depend on infrastructure development and economic growth, but also on the involvement of all parties at the community level, said Dr Zaliha.
Green city of Putrajaya
Putrajaya, the federal government’s administrative centre, has become well known as a green city.
Annual programmes like Royal Floria Putrajaya Flower & Garden Festival are not only famous nationwide but also draw foreign tourists.
Putrajaya’s planned developments integrate green technology to support environmental sustainability.
Parks like Taman Botani, Taman Wetland and Taman Saujana Hijau provide beautiful recreational spaces while also serving as natural habitats for local flora and fauna.
“Embracing conservation and diversity, Putrajaya is proof that greenery is a crucial aspect of sustainable urban development.
“To date, 707,756 trees have been planted in Putrajaya,” said Dr Zaliha.
Development in Putrajaya prioritises sustainability, not just the natural environment but also in providing top-notch public amenities.
Its planned developments, integrating green technology and eco-friendly materials, foster a balanced community, supporting both social growth and environmental sustainability.
Annual programmes like Floria Putrajaya attract many local and foreign visitors.
“Beyond the environmental focus, Putrajaya aims to become a smart city, using technology for efficient resource management, traffic control and public services.
“This transformation has made Putrajaya a vibrant city, enhancing life quality and generating income through large-scale events like the Varsity Boat Race,” said Dr Zaliha.
Investment hub of Labuan
The federal territory of Labuan is unique in that it not only has a stunning seascape to draw in tourists, but also holds a strategic position as an investment hub.
Dr Zaliha said Labuan has enormous potential to become a regional economic centre, especially in supporting the oil & gas industry and maritime sectors.
Labuan’s stunning seascapes make it a natural tourism destination.
“This potential could turn Labuan into a “second Singapore”.
“With its unique tax-free status, the island could be the preferred destination for investors.”
The Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (IBFC) attracts international companies, further expanding the island into an international business and financial hub.
“The government’s commitment to support the growth of Labuan IBFC by providing a five-year income tax exemption next year to entities in Labuan engaged in Islamic finance activities will further attract investor interest.”
For those wanting to explore Labuan’s natural wonders, the white, sandy beaches, clear seawater and fertile coral reefs make the island an ideal destination for divers and nature lovers.
Pulau Rusukan Kecil and Pulau Rusukan Besar add charm with their natural mangrove forests, creating the perfect blend of greenery and blue sea.
The recognition of Labuan National Geopark as a national geopark in 2021 was another achievement for JWP.
The geopark, which spans 402km², highlights the evolution of sedimentary rocks and landscapes that formed Labuan Island as well as biological sites such as the mangrove forest (Kinabenuwa), coastal forest (Tanjung Kubong), wildlife sanctuary (Pulau Ular) and marine parks (Pulau Rusukan Besar, Pulau Rusukan Kecil and Pulau Kuraman).
These areas are also habitats for various bird species such as swiftlets, Pacific Reef egret, Anhinga and Crimson Sunbird.
The island has several historically significant places such as Menara Chimney and Masjid Jamek An’nur.
> Read StarMetro tomorrow for the second part of the exclusive interview with the Federal Territories Minister.
