Liveable cities: Govt to build, upgrade 100 parks a year

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to incorporating climate-conscious strategies to address urbanisation challenges.

This will be done via the Third National Urban Policy (NUP3), he said at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

“We are now preparing the NUP3 for inclusive and balanced development, which emphasises creating cities that are not only economically vibrant but also liveable and sustainable,” he said.

Nga also shared that his ministry is integrating climate-resilient design features into its affordable housing projects to ensure the urban poor are not left behind in the transition to greener cities.

“We aim to build and upgrade at least 100 public parks each year to scale up our nature-based solutions,” he added.

The Housing and Local Government Ministry is part of Malaysia’s delegation to COP29, with a focus on tackling climate change challenges amid rapid urbanisation.

Nga added that Malaysia aims to establish itself as a leading hub for green investments to drive sustainable growth, said

“Through COP29, Malaysia aims to establish itself as a leading hub for green investments by promoting supportive policies and fostering strategic collaborations to drive sustainable growth,” he said.

He also urged the global community to put ideas into action, saying, “We will not be remembered for what we have said but for what we have done and left for future generations.

“We cannot change the past, but collectively, we can determine the future. So let’s do it together,” he stressed.

He emphasised that the scale of urban climate challenges calls for intensified action and greater financial support, noting that only 27 percent of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) globally currently include comprehensive urban strategies.

In addition, Nga expressed Malaysia’s strong support for the Declaration on Multisectoral Action Pathways (MAP) to Resilient and Healthy Cities.

“Its focus on fostering multisectoral collaboration is critical for addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change, especially in urban settings where these impacts are most pronounced,” he said.

“In fact, MAP aligns closely with our national priorities such as the Low Carbon and Climate Change Resilient Urban Planning Guidelines spearheaded by the Housing and Local Government Ministry,” he added.

COP29: M'sia committed to global climate agenda - minister

COMMENT | Never-ending talks on climate financing