Kuala lumpur: The Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) is set to join forces with the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) to explore new ideas for revamping public spaces across Kuala Lumpur, as announced by Minister Hannah Yeoh.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the collaboration aims to ensure that the city's infrastructure is aligned with the daily activities and well-being of its residents, in an effort to maximize the utility of the capital's limited public land. Minister Yeoh emphasized the importance of such facilities in promoting a healthy lifestyle among city dwellers, saying, "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."

Speaking at the launch of the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival (KLAF) 2026, Yeoh highlighted the necessity of working with professionals beyond the civil service to achieve these goals within a limited timeframe. She remarked, "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."

The festival, organized by PAM, celebrates architecture, design, creativity, and public engagement under the theme 'Future Culture'. Yeoh noted that the collaboration would address broader issues such as public housing design and facilities that encourage a healthier lifestyle for women, including the provision of public showers.

Drawing from her experience as a former Youth and Sports Minister, Yeoh stressed that meaningful transformation requires time, courage, and a willingness to adopt new approaches. She underscored the importance of listening to industry partners to achieve sustainable outcomes.