PETALING JAYA: Resolutions put forward at the Urban Renewal convention will be reviewed to ensure they align with the principles of sustainable, inclusive and equitable town and country planning, says the Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia).
Its director-general Datuk Dr Alias Rameli said PLANMalaysia is committed to ensuring that every proposal is carefully reviewed to be consistent with existing policies and deliver broad benefits to the people.
The convention, organised by Umno, presented three key resolutions and 14 specific recommendations.
The department said the country’s rapid urbanisation rate, which rose from 28.4% in 1970 to 75.8% in 2024, has created major challenges in meeting the demand for urban renewal.
“This situation requires a more comprehensive, well-planned and people-oriented approach to avoid recurring issues such as dilapidated and unsafe buildings, abandoned projects, resident conflicts, inequitable compensation and the neglect of original residents’ rights and interests,” it said.
It said any urban renewal plan must take into account the uniqueness of each area, including settlement characteristics, demographic composition, local customs, and public interest.
PLANMalaysia said urban renewal initiatives must not be driven solely by profit motives, but should be rooted in public well-being while balancing the interests of landowners, local communities and the nation’s overall development.
“We will continue to prioritise stakeholder engagement, input, and feedback to ensure that the URA is comprehensive, fair, and effective,” said the statement.
Meanwhile, Umno wants the Urban Renewal Bill not to be tabled until a major overhaul is carried out to address public concerns.
