Dr Zaliha: Malaysia Promotes CHASE City Vision For Sustainable ASEANUrban Development

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 12 (Bernama) -- Malaysia today called on ASEAN nations to adopt an integrated urban planning approach, which balances environmental stewardship, social well-being, and economic competitiveness through the CHASE City framework.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said that the framework, introduced in the Federal Territories, envisions cities that are Clean, Healthy, Advanced, Safe and Eco-friendly, offering a flexible model adaptable to the diverse realities of ASEAN cities.

“It is within this context of interconnected challenges that Malaysia has sought to define a guiding vision, one that is practical in implementation, yet adaptable to diverse circumstances across ASEAN.

“This is not a collection of separate agendas, but an integrated philosophy that guides urban policy, design and governance, in a holistic way,” she said.

She said this in her speech at the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Forum (ASUF), ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF) and the Meeting of Governors and Mayors of ASEAN Capitals (MGMAC) 2025, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), here, today.

Dr Zaliha said that the CHASE City framework aligns with ASEAN’s urban priorities, as it enables collaboration between government, business, academia and civil society, to create sustainable, liveable cities.

She cited the Kota MADANI development in Putrajaya as a tangible manifestation of the framework, incorporating low-carbon solutions, AI-driven smart technologies, active and safe mobility, green networks and community facilities.

The minister also highlighted Malaysia’s membership in the Davos Baukultur Alliance, making it the first country outside Europe to join the global coalition.

“This membership reflects our belief that cities are more than functional spaces. They are cultural and social ecosystems whose physical form should strengthen identity, foster inclusion and inspire pride among residents,” she said.

She pointed to initiatives such as Warisan KL, which preserves heritage sites, including Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad and Carcosa Seri Negara, through adaptive reuse and sustainable design, creating public spaces which enhance civic pride, tourism and economic activity.

-- BERNAMA