PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for the swift implementation of the Kota Madani project, envisioned as a model for urban development rooted in humanitarian values, sustainability, and technological progress.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, proposed that Putrajaya Holdings (PjH) expedite the project, which was launched on June 26.
"I proposed the development of Kota Madani more than a year ago, and I would like to thank PPj for its full cooperation in expediting the approval process.
"With PPj and all government agencies providing their full support, it is now up to Putrajaya Holdings to push ahead at full speed," he said during his speech at Putrajaya Holdings' 30th anniversary celebration here Friday (Oct 17) night.
Also present were Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa and PjH chairman Datuk Kamil Khalid Ariff.
The Kota Madani development project in Precinct 19 is a major initiative based on the concept of a smart, people-oriented, and environmentally sustainable city.
Valued at RM4bil, the project is being developed by PjH through a public-private partnership model based on the build, lease, maintain, and transfer (BLMT) concept, without requiring government funding at the initial stage.
Meanwhile, Anwar noted that Putrajaya, known as the federal administrative centre, has received praise from foreign leaders for its beauty and distinctive identity.
"From the prime minister's official residence, one can see the breathtaking view of Putrajaya - it is truly impressive," he said.
He also expressed his appreciation to former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad for his role in initiating and driving the development of Putrajaya.
"There was some hesitation among civil servants in the early days, as many were reluctant to relocate from Kuala Lumpur to Putrajaya.
"But after seeing the facilities - the mosques, schools, infrastructure, hospitals, and other amenities - they became more eager to move," he said.
He mentioned that private sector involvement in constructing a private hospital in Putrajaya would further elevate its status on the international stage.
"The establishment of a private hospital will not only enhance healthcare services but also reflect excellence and high standards," he said.
Anwar emphasised that urban development should embody human-centred, sustainable, and green values, guided by the principles of a smart city. – Bernama
