PUTRAJAYA: The Urban Renewal Bill will be a catalyst for the development of smart and sustainable cities nationwide, which will strengthen the people’s quality of life, says Nga Kor Ming (pic).
The Housing and Local Government Minister said the main scopes in the implementation of the Bill include the integration of smart city features such as smart traffic light systems, smart street lights, smart toilets and the use of renewable energy.
“When we carry out urban renewal, of course we will include smart city elements, such as smart traffic lights that can detect vehicles and automatically change red lights to green to reduce traffic congestion and save time.
“The same goes for smart streetlights that only turn on when night falls and turn off when there is light, saving energy. Now we also have smart toilets with automatic sensors and solar panels on the roof... all towards energy efficiency and sustainability,” he said.
Nga was speaking to the media after the launch of the National Level World Urban Planning Day 2025 Celebration, National Planning Congress and MyCity Expo at a ceremony here yesterday, Bernama reported.
The ceremony was launched by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Nga said the Bill is crucial in empowering the government to implement comprehensive redevelopment initiatives and prevent manipulation under existing provisions such as the Land Acquisition Act.
“Without the proposed Urban Renewal Act, my hands are tied. This Act will empower the government to assist, facilitate and implement urban renewal more efficiently,” he said.
Nga said his ministry is collecting feedback from various parties, including through the National Planning Congress.
“The director-general and the Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia) team are collecting all views and will prepare a complete report to be presented to the Cabinet.
“The official announcement will be made after the final approval is received,” he added.
Nga also highlighted the success of the PBTPay application, which enables payments for taxes, assessments and compounds to be processed via a digital platform. To date, collections have surpassed RM600mil.
“This shows how important digital transformation is under the ministry.
“My vision is to create an application that encompasses all agencies, including PLANMalaysia, the Fire and Rescue Department and the National Housing Department, so that people no longer need to come to the office but can manage everything through one application,” he said.
Nga said the implementation of digital transformation will occur in phases as part of the 13th Malaysia Plan.
He added that the primary aim of smart city development goes beyond merely enhancing infrastructure; it is fundamentally about promoting the well-being and happiness of the populace.
“This government is people- centred, and humanity is central to our development goals,” Nga said.
In terms of international recognition, Kuala Lumpur is currently positioned 65th in the Smart Cities Index 2025, as published by the International Institute for Management Development.
This marks an improvement from its previous ranking of 73rd last year, representing the city’s best achievement in five years.
