PETALING JAYA: Urban planning and development should not sideline humanitarian values and the welfare of the people, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the efficiency and performance of the Petaling Jaya City Council should serve as an example in improving urban planning to ensure it is not focused solely on the grandeur of physical structures.
“Urban development is actually about human development, as well as fostering our faith and morality, so that humanitarian principles remain at the core,” he said when opening World Town Planning Day 2026.
The Prime Minister also launched the Fifth National Physical Plan (RFN5) and Third National Urbanisation Policy (DPN3).
Anwar said increasing urban greenery and providing basic amenities remain the government’s key challenges.
He cited the threat of flooding, which often affects suburban areas where low-income groups bear the brunt of its impact.
“Take states such as Kelantan and Terengganu, for example. Although I am aware of the political differences, I do not let that stand in the way.
“I remain strongly committed to resolving the people’s problems, including flooding, through flood mitigation projects,” he said.
Anwar said the success of any planning initiative should not be measured solely against international standards, but must also translate into tangible improvements at the grassroots level.
