Malaysia could benefit from legislation similar to Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) to regulate urban renewal, according to Samuel Tan, executive director of KGV International Property Consultants (Johor) Sdn Bhd. He said that an alternative to the URA would provide the best way to effect change in land use, making it easier for authorities to implement regulations in the public interest.
Tan explained that Malaysia currently lacks legislation specifically governing urban regeneration. Instead, laws such as the Land Acquisition Act and the Planning Act are used to govern land uses and other land-related issues. To drive urban renewal, political will is needed to pass a bill to create an organization similar to the URA.
The URA has been crucial in transforming Singapore’s physical landscape, particularly in the Central Area. Examples include the revitalization of the financial sector, known as the “Golden Shoe” region, the development of Marina Centre, and the transition of Tanjong Rhu from a shipyard zone to a prominent residential enclave. The authority prioritizes the best use of resources to balance economic growth, quality of life, and the built environment.
Tan emphasized that many old structures in Johor Bahru could be repurposed for greater usage, citing heritage building conservation projects like those at Tan Hiok Nee and Kampung Melayu Majidee as good examples of how the URA model could be applied. Landowners would benefit from this approach as it would attract both locals and tourists to their locations.
In Singapore, the URA selects buildings and regions for preservation based on historical, architectural, and cultural significance. It establishes criteria for building owners, architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure the quality of restoration. Moreover, the URA formulates urban design plans and strategies, evaluates the link between buildings and streets, and oversees public parking lots in various areas.
By adopting a similar model, Malaysia could make the best use of resources to balance economic growth, quality of life, and the built environment, ultimately making the country a great place to live, work, and play.