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New Straits Times
16-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Tengku Amir Shah envisions more inclusive, forward-thinking Selangor focused on long-term sustainability
SHAH ALAM: Selangor is poised to become a dynamic and modern metropolis, defined not just by world-class amenities and cutting-edge infrastructure but also by a firm commitment to sustainable development. Sharing his vision for the state, Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah said Selangor's true strength lies not in its economic figures or rankings, but in the well-being of its people. While Selangor has achieved significant economic success, including being the largest contributor to Malaysia's gross domestic product (GDP), Tengku Amir Shah said real progress is only meaningful if it directly benefits the people in the state. "Progress means little if it leaves our people behind – and in Selangor Darul Ehsan, this Land of Benevolence – it is our responsibility to ensure that growth uplifts all, both within our borders, and beyond. "The true strength of Selangor isn't just in figures or rankings – it's in the well-being of our people. That's what really matters. And in that sense, Shah Alam represents something special. "I envision a Selangor that is more inclusive, forward-thinking, and focused on long-term sustainability. Where everyone has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and prosper." Tengku Amir Shah said the new KSSA is an integral part of that vision, which has taken him seven years to bring to life. "It is more than a stadium. It is a space for everyone – a place where people can come together to be involved in sports, in culture, in the arts, in learning. "It is designed with the people in mind, built for the future, but steeped in the values and traditions we Selangorians hold dear. "This is the ethos of Shah Alam. This is what we are bringing to the future – and to the world," he said. Tengku Amir Shah said this in his speech at the handover ceremony of the Letter of Acceptance for the Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA) development between Menteri Besar Selangor Inc (MBI Selangor) and Lembaran Prospek Sdn Bhd (LPSB), a subsidiary of MRCB Land Sdn Bhd and Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB). Also present were Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, Selangor State Secretary Datuk Dr Ahmad Fadzli Ahmad Tajuddin, MBI Selangor group chief executive officer Datuk Saipolyazan M. Yusop, and MRCB group managing director Datuk Imran Salim. Tengku Amir Shah also attributed Selangor's progress to the sound policies and plans rolled out by the state government under Amirudin's leadership. He said Selangor in 2023 emerged as Malaysia's top economic contributor, accounting for 25.9 per cent or RM406.1 billion of the national GDP, which represented a 5.4 per cent increase from the previous year, underscoring Selangor's pivotal role in the nation's economy. "As we look to the future, Selangor is setting its sights even higher. With a target of RM50 billion in investments for 2024, and a longer-term goal of contributing RM500 billion to the national economy within the next three years, we are determined to build not just a stronger Selangor, but a more inclusive and dynamic Malaysia," he said. Tengku Amir Shah said he is committed to working closely with Amirudin to transform Selangor into a state that not only thrives economically, but also leads with purpose, balancing innovation with inclusivity. "We are united by the conviction that true development must improve lives. I am encouraged by the state government's continued efforts to raise the standard of living through accessible healthcare, quality education, affordable housing, and initiatives that empower youth and uplift marginalised communities. "These are values I deeply cherish, and I will continue to give my full support to policies that place the people of Selangor at the heart of progress. "As we move forward, I remain committed to working closely with the Menteri Besar, government agencies, the private sector, and civil society to ensure that our vision is not only realised but sustained, for generations to come."
New Straits Times
15-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Selangor's new urban development blueprint balances growth, climate resilience and digital innovation
KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor is positioning itself as Malaysia's model state for future-ready development, balancing economic growth with climate resilience, urban connectivity and digital innovation. In 2023, Selangor contributed the largest share to Malaysia's gross domestic product at 25.9 per cent, equivalent to RM406.1 billion, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia. Its economy grew 5.4 per cent that year, outpacing the country's expansion of 3.6 per cent. As Selangor lays out its blueprint for smart, walkable, and integrated urban districts, attention is shifting to how development links communities both physically and socially. "Mobility should mean the ability to walk comfortably — ideally in covered spaces that are resilient to sun and rain," said urban planning expert Lim Take Bane on the New Straits Times ' Beyond the Headlines podcast discussing the topic "Future-Proofing Cities". Lim said transit-oriented development must reduce dependence on cars by integrating homes, public transport and commercial centres. "The idea is simple. You live upstairs, take the train downstairs, and everything you need is within reach. When we do this well, we reduce traffic, stress and environmental impact," he said. Lim said interface zones — areas where different development types converged — should be well designed to ensure smooth infrastructure transitions and avoid traffic bottlenecks. He said cities must prepare for climate resilience, particularly urban flooding. Selangor's plans for the state-of-the-art Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA) are poised to set a new benchmark for eco-resilient urban design. Lim said such strategies challenged urban planning norms and that forward-thinking designs were replacing hardscapes with multifunctional green zones that serve as both flood buffers and public parks. By embracing this model, he added, KSSA could become more than just a sports complex — it could help future-proof the city against climate extremes and safeguard communities. Economist Professor Dr Barjoyai Bardai said Selangor's ambition to lead in the digital economy must be supported by real-time data systems and intelligent infrastructure. "The state government must invest in big data analytics to understand the well-being, consumption, income and health of its residents, which can then be tailored to real needs," he said. Barjoyai said Selangor's strategic role in Malaysia's semiconductor roadmap was a key advantage. "With hubs like Cyberjaya acting as a tech park, and strong academic and industrial institutions in places like Shah Alam and Rawang, Selangor is poised to lead not just in assembly but also in chip design and advanced manufacturing," he added. Both experts agreed that public-private partnerships would be crucial to ensuring sustainable and balanced development. The Selangor State Development Corporation had done well in initiating development collaborations, especially with international firms, they said. "But the next step is to embed technology into these ventures.
New Straits Times
10-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Selangor lays the groundwork for nation's future
ALIZA SHAH speaks to an economist, urban sociologist and planner to unpack the ideas, ambitions and ripple effects of the city's urban reinvention SELANGOR is playing a key role in shaping Malaysia's development with its initiatives and strong focus on innovation and sustainability. The Selangor Smart State Agenda, for instance, will transform the state into a leading urban centre in Southeast Asia. Selangor was recognised by the World Bank last year as a high-income state after it surpassed the per capita income threshold of US$14,000 (RM64,491). Bold strategies are focusing not only on developing the state and improving the livelihoods of the people, but also on preserving the environment. A future of global competitiveness and sustainable growth is very much on the agenda. ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE Selangor is one of the richest states, accounting for 25.9 per cent or RM406.1 billion of the nation's gross domestic product in 2023. The Petaling district, anchored by Shah Alam and encompassing Petaling Jaya and Subang Jaya, drives over half of the state's economy. Economist Dr Yeah Kim Leng said this underscores the district's role as a growth pole. He said the development of Shah Alam, Selangor's capital, would have a significant impact on the country's growth trajectory. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia urban sociology professor Dr Novel Lyndon said without Selangor, Malaysia's economy would suffer significant setbacks. He said this is due to its strengths in various sectors, which make it an attractive destination for both foreign and domestic investments. "Its strategic position and strengths make it indispensable to Malaysia's present and future development," he said. Novel said Selangor is the economic and logistical hub of the country. "It hosts the country's main port, Port Klang, Malaysia's largest international airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport and key industrial zones such as Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya and Subang. "With well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce and a strong digital economy, Selangor contributes significantly to the nation's GDP and foreign investment," he said. The state's diverse economy — ranging from manufacturing and services to technology and logistics — also makes it a vital player in national development. "Selangor is home to many multinational corporations, industrial parks and economic zones, like Port Klang Free Zone and Selangor Hub. "The state also has excellent support sectors from aerospace to agrotech, tourism and e-commerce," he said. Shah Alam, he added, holds immense growth potential, driven by smart urban planning, infrastructure investment, economic diversification and sustainability initiatives. He said the city's strategic position enhances its potential to attract residents, businesses and investors. SELANGOR'S ROLE IN THE NATION'S GROWTH Selangor is charting an ambitious course to solidify its position as Malaysia's economic engine. Among the strategic initiatives are Selangor Smart State Agenda, the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor and Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0. Novel said the plans aim to enhance Selangor's position as a sustainable and globally competitive state. "They include expanding digital infrastructure, promoting green technology and building new townships and industrial parts," he said. The Selangor Aerospace and Aviation sector and Digital Free Trade Zone near KLIA are also expected to draw high-tech investments and boost international trade. "Selangor plays a critical role in Malaysia's growth in various dimensions such as infrastructure and demographics," he said. Rapid urbanisation is also fuelling growth in education, housing and services. SELANGOR'S ROLE BEYOND THE GDP The state is leading the way in education, health, culture and innovation. "It is home to top institutions like Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Universiti Putra Malaysia, International Islamic University Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, research bodies and hospitals that support human capital development," Novel said. As a cultural melting pot and centre for the creative industry, Selangor also fosters national unity and cultural expression. Novel said the state leads in environmental efforts through initiatives such as river rehabilitation and green urban planning. He added that Selangor's governance innovations and digital public services provide a blueprint for a citizen-centric administration in Malaysia. FUTURE-READY CITIES Recognising the rapid technological advancements, shifting climate patterns and growing urban populations, Selangor is taking a proactive approach to future-proof its cities, with Shah Alam at the heart of this transformation. Universiti Malaya Urban and Regional Planning Department senior lecturer Dr Nikmatul Adha Nordin said cities now must be more adaptable, resilient and inclusive. Future-proofing means building with flexibility in mind so we are prepared for what is ahead, she explained. Echoing her sentiments, Novel said cities must accommodate a growing population and ensure sustainability. "This involves efficient resource management, reducing environmental impact and ensuring that infrastructure can handle future demands without depleting natural resources. "Emphasising infrastructure and services will allow cities to attract businesses and investments," said the chairman of the UKM Centre for Research in Development, Social and Environment. Novel said a future-proof city will be able to better withstand economic fluctuations and promote long-term growth. "Being proactive in technology adoption will help cities stay competitive and efficient. "At the same time, it will make cities more attractive and liveable, encouraging population growth and retention." Novel also believes that investing in educational institutions and research centres will turn Shah Alam into an innovation hub that attracts talent. "Collaborations with UiTM, for example, to promote research and development, and entrepreneurship will play a vital role (in the city's growth)." Novel said improving tourism infrastructure, such as parks, cultural sites and entertainment venues, will support the local economy by bringing in more visitors. Yeah said the synergy between economic growth, modernisation, urbanisation and city centre development underscores the importance of future-proofing cities. "Future-proofing Shah Alam and other city centres is important to strengthen their role as an economic core for driving growth and a social core that focuses on liveability and social activities." Shah Alam is also the state's centre of power as it hosts religious and state administrative buildings. INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENTS RESHAPING CITIES Nikmatul said the people of Shah Alam are in for exciting years ahead as several development projects transform the city. "Projects like SA Sentral, river revitalisation in Seksyen 24 and the Kompleks Sukan Shah Alam (KSSA) development are turning Shah Alam into a more vibrant and attractive urban hub. "These plans are being carried out alongside the city's Low Carbon City 2035 vision — so it's not just about development, but also sustainable and responsible growth," she said. Nikmatul added that integrated developments and smart city strategies are key to long-term sustainability. "When planning is data-driven, connected and inclusive, it makes cities more resilient. "Shah Alam's emphasis on transit-oriented development and smarter infrastructure is laying the foundation for a more competitive, liveable city in the years to come," she said. Novel said that building integrated developments, where residential, commercial, industrial and recreational spaces coexist, helps prevent a city from relying too heavily on a single economic sector. This, he added, creates a diverse and balanced economy that is more stable and resilient. Adopting smart city technologies, he said, will also strengthen industries like green energy, digital services and high-value manufacturing. "It boosts local entrepreneurship and innovation as well as improves public services and governance. "Smart systems also allow quick detection of and response to natural disasters, cyberthreats and health emergencies." Yeah said modern, integrated infrastructure and facilities, the hallmarks of smart and green cities, serve as powerful magnets not only for investors but also for businesses. "They attract domestic and foreign investors, workers, businesspeople and entrepreneurs, providing a myriad of goods and services for high living standards." "Rising income and living standards create a virtuous cycle of abundant business and investment opportunities of various scales and scopes," he added.
