PETALING JAYA: Clear mechanisms combined with a phased implementation will be key to ensure the proposed Urban Renewal Act’s (URA) success, says the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP).
The institute said the government must give priority to clarifying the dispute resolution mechanisms available to facilitate agreements among property owners.
"This would ensure the rights of property owners who may have concerns about redevelopment while protecting overall community wellbeing in affected areas.
"In addition, measures should be put in place to address and reduce existing delays in resolving such conflicts," MIP said in a press statement on Monday (May 5).
It said that URA should be implemented in phases, allowing for adjustments to be made in light of any sudden real-world challenges or lessons learned from initial phases.
“Combining this with a data-driven approach in policymaking would ensure positive outcomes for all stakeholders while achieving its goal of revitalising ageing, dilapidated urban areas.
“Impact assessment studies on social, heritage and environmental effects must also be done first to ensure the urban renewal process is both holistic and sustainable,” it added.
MIP also suggested that the identification of urban renewal and redevelopment areas be included in the local plans and special area plans under the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act 1976 (Act 172).
"This would allow for a better coordinated implementation by relevant local authorities through additional statutory recognition and promote more stakeholder engagement.
"Continued and inclusive engagement with stakeholders must also be done, particularly on matters related to land use policies and legal, to strengthen public confidence in the framework.
"With structured dialogues and transparent decision-making processes, it will contribute to a more successful and widely supported urban renewal initiative,” it said.
According to the draft Bill, the URA aims to enhance the efficiency of urban planning, particularly in addressing the risk of urban dilapidation and deterioration, as well as maintaining a balanced urban environment.
The Bill is expected to be tabled sometime this year.
