Malaysia To Host Three Key ASEAN Urban Sustainability Events Next Month

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is set to host three major ASEAN programmes on sustainable urban development from Aug 10 to 15, in conjunction with its ASEAN Chairmanship.

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the ministry will host the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Forum (ASUF), ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF) and the Meeting of Governors and Mayors of ASEAN Capitals (MGMAC) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

He described the events as Malaysia’s bold response to the global call for climate-resilient cities and equitable development, especially in light of its role as both ASEAN Chair and newly appointed President of the UN-Habitat Assembly.

“As regional convener and global advocate, Malaysia is honoured to lead this urban movement. Kuala Lumpur 2025 will be the next milestone in reimagining our cities for the future.

“These major programmes are aimed at driving inclusive, sustainable and resilient urban development across the region. Over 8,000 participants, including mayors and governors from 500 cities, are expected to attend,” he said in his speech at the pre-launch of ASUF, AGMF and MGMAC here today.

Also present were Housing and Local Government Ministry secretary-general Datuk M Noor Azman Taib and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) executive director (Project Management) Mohamad Hamim.

Under the theme ‘ASEAN Future Cities and Regions: Inclusivity and Sustainability’, Nga said the series of events will address four key pillars - Climate-Resilient Cities; Inclusive, Healthy and Caring Cities; Digital Transformation and Innovation; and Collaborative Pathways to Sustainability.

He emphasised that these are not abstract ideals but action-driven blueprints backed by real case studies and policy frameworks.

He added that practical applications such as nature-based solutions for flood-prone areas, transit-oriented affordable housing and inclusive mobility systems will be explored.

“Among the key highlights of the week-long programme are eight technical visits, five stakeholder assemblies, an Urban Expo featuring 100 exhibitors and over 150 sessions with more than 200 regional and international speakers,” he said.

As part of the pre-launch, Nga also unveiled specially themed GoKL and Prasarana buses to serve as ‘moving ambassadors’, amplifying the message of sustainable urbanisation to the public.

-- BERNAMA