Kuala Lumpur:Technical assessments and inspections of obsolete utilities in areas prone to sinkholes must be conducted before local authorities can approve any development projects.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this requirement was established during the 51st National Physical Planning Council (MPFN) meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) emphasized that this measure is vital for ensuring public safety and addressing geological risks early in the development planning process.
The meeting also encouraged state governments to enhance the quality of public open spaces and speed up the gazettement process. This initiative aims to ensure public access to safe recreational areas, promote healthy lifestyles, and strengthen community interactions.
Additionally, the meeting approved the Fifth National Physical Plan (RFN5) and the Third National Urbanisation Policy (DPN3), setting strategic directions for Malaysia's physical and urban development. RFN5, the country's primary spatial planning document, applies to Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Labuan until 2040, focusing on sustainable land use, natural resource preservation, and resilience against climate change.
Key targets of RFN5 include implementing smart cities across 115 local authorities, maintaining at least 50% forest cover, and designating 1.6 million hectares of potential land for economic growth. Meanwhile, DPN3, guiding urban development until 2035, covers 203 cities under 101 local authorities, aiming for structured, inclusive, and sustainable urban growth.
The MPFN also reviewed the Draft Putrajaya Structure Plan 2050, setting the direction for the national administrative center's development, including a target population of 305,000 and the provision of 83,438 housing units. The plan aims for carbon-neutral status and urban management driven by artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, the meeting agreed on the Perlis State Structure Plan 2040, which includes strategies for the Perlis Inland Port, Chuping Valley Industrial Area, and strengthening the state's granary areas.
Overall, the decisions from the 51st MPFN underscore the government's commitment to planned, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development, aligning with Malaysia MADANI aspirations.