IPOH: Sustainable development, pollution, and the enhancement of the ecosystem were the key topics addressed during the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) Green Council meeting. Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, chairing the meeting for the first time in Perak, discussed three main strategies concerning the environment with the attendees.
One of the strategies focused on increasing and implementing green city initiatives in all the sub-regions involved. Another strategy talked about coordinating efforts for the sustainable management of natural resources within the triangle including forests, water sources, and wildlife. Additionally, there was a discussion on strengthening cooperation in the management and restoration of the ecosystem at the borders.
During a press conference after the meeting, Saarani stated that the core team also addressed the importance of supervising and monitoring the sustainable urban development framework. They encouraged responsible resource management, reducing pollution and waste, and fostering a more equitable and resilient society.
Given Perak’s location, bordering both Indonesia and Thailand by land and sea, this meeting was greatly beneficial for the state. The shared natural resources and cultural aspects in the bordering areas necessitate cooperation in facing various challenges. Saarani also took the opportunity to promote Perak and its attractions to the delegates present, as next year is Visit Perak Year.
In his speech, Saarani shared Perak’s masterplan, “Perak Sejahtera 2030,” which focuses on excellent governance, economic development, and social well-being. He explained that the state aims to transition from an extractive economy to a sustainable, regenerative one through a circular economic model. Ipoh, in particular, has been designated as the first city in Southeast Asia to adopt the Doughnut or Circular economics into its development plans and policies.
Additionally, the state has adopted a sustainable plan to accelerate green, sustainable, and inclusive development within national and international sustainability parameters. Perak has successfully preserved 48% of its land area and planted 5.5 million trees as part of the nationwide 100 million tree planting campaign.
Saarani highlighted that Perak aims to tap into hydroelectric energy from its river streams and pioneer “floating solar” projects to harness energy from the Bukit Merah and Kenering lakes. The state is also advocating for the Smart Green City initiative, implementing collaborative programs to address urbanization challenges and transform Ipoh into a Green and Low Carbon City by 2030.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
