Govt To Work With PAM In Recreating KL Public Spaces

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- The Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) is looking to collaborate with the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) to explore new ideas in recreating public spaces in Kuala Lumpur, Minister Hannah Yeoh said. 

Hannah said the collaboration would focus on ensuring that infrastructure supports daily activities and the well-being of city residents, as the capital seeks better ways to optimise its limited public land.

“We are going to work with PAM to look into recreating public spaces in KL,” she told reporters after officiating the launch of the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival (KLAF) 2026 here today. 

She said such facilities are essential if the city is serious about encouraging a healthy lifestyle among its residents.

“If you want to create a healthy lifestyle here, you’ve got to make sure that the infrastructure is there to support that kind of lifestyle.

“So that’s something that we will work together with the stakeholders to look at new ideas in recreating public space for KL folks,” she said.

Earlier, in her speech, Hannah said reshaping KL within a limited timeframe would require close collaboration with professionals beyond the civil service, as she does not have the luxury of a full term to implement changes.

“I don’t have five years, but I have to reshape KL. I know I cannot do it on my own or just with civil servants, I have to work with professionals like you,” she said.

She said the event was significant as it brought together architects, whom she described as key players in reimagining space and shaping future culture.

Drawing on her experience as former Youth and Sports Minister, Hannah said meaningful transformation requires time, courage and a willingness to try new approaches, even at the risk of early failure.

“Transforming Malaysia takes time and requires the courage to go out of the norm, doing new things,” she said, adding that listening to industry partners is key to achieving sustainable outcomes.

She said the collaboration with architects would also examine broader issues such as public housing design, public toilets and facilities that enable more women to exercise regularly.

“If we want women to exercise and live healthier lifestyles in KL, we need facilities such as public showers,” she said.

Organised by PAM, the year-long KLAF 2026 celebrates architecture, design, creativity and public engagement under the theme “Future Culture”.

-- BERNAMA