Initiative for Ipoh focuses on regeneration, planetary health and community empowerment. — EZANOR MK/The Star
AN action plan is in place to transform Ipoh into a Doughnut Economics City, driving urban development in a sustainable and regenerative manner.
“Ipoh Doughnut Economics: A City Portrait in Action” was launched by Ipoh mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah during Asean Sustainable Urbanisation Forum (ASUF) 2025.
In his speech, Zamakhshari said the plan would empower every citizen to directly contribute to the development of the city.
“It is an invitation for the community, businesses and institutions to imagine endless new possibilities for our city, rooted in equity and resilience.
“We are embracing a future where Ipoh is known not for what we extract but for how we regenerate.
“It is a bold shift for Ipoh to redefine itself not only as a post-industrial city but also a model for regenerative growth, community empowerment and planetary health,” he added.
The action plan is a culmination of two years of engagement between Ipoh City Council (MBI), Institut Darul Ridzuan (IDR) and Sunway Centre for Planetary Health (SCPH), supported by Hasanah Foundation.
The Ipoh Doughnut Economics concept was introduced when Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad launched the Perak Sejahtera 2030 development plan in 2022.
The initiative received the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Scroll of Honour Award in 2024.
Ipoh Doughnut Economics Centre (IDEC) chief executive officer Dr Zulqarnain Mohamad said the three central themes of the plan – regeneration, planetary health and community empowerment – would enable collective learning from Ipoh’s unique strengths and historical legacy.
“Doughnut Economics gives us a language to turn hope into policy and policy into practice.
“This is not just a report to be filed away; it is a dynamic tool driving the city’s transformation,” said Zulqarnain.
