Property developers should move away from conventional land-clearing practices and prioritise ecological preservation as Malaysia pursues sustainable urbanisation, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said.
He said rapid urban expansion requires developers to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and long-term liveability.
“As our cities evolve, the challenge is no longer simply about delivering more housing, but creating communities that are inclusive, safe and comfortable,” he said.
Nga said sustainability remains a key pillar of the government’s development agenda, supported by initiatives such as the National Circular Economy Council, the Malaysia Smart City Rating Framework and Waste-to-Energy (WtE) projects.
He added that green technologies, including solar panels, are being incorporated into public housing projects to broaden access to sustainable living.
Malaysia, one of 27 countries recognised by the United Nations as megadiverse, must protect its natural heritage, he said, noting that 115 million trees have been planted nationwide under conservation efforts.
Nga also commended Urban Hallmark Properties Sdn Bhd for preserving nearly 30% of the Botanik Point development area as a secondary forest ecosystem instead of clearing the land entirely.
“Sustainability should not be treated as an afterthought. It should be embedded into the DNA of planning itself,” he said.
