WHEN I travel to different countries, I often ponder what makes some cities so appealing. What are the qualities that distant themselves from others and make them world-class cities?
When we mention London, New York, Melbourne, Tokyo and Vancouver, different people may relate different images to these cities. But one thing in common is the acknowledgment of their world-class standard, a recognition that illustrates the important roles they play and the significance of the countries these cities belong to.
So, does Kuala Lumpur or Greater KL have the potential to become one of those world-class cities? I believe, for Greater KL to achieve world class standards, both “hardware” and “software” of the city must be further improved and enhanced. Both elements are interconnected - a city that is rich in software but lacks the hardware development is like a talented pianist who goes on the stage without a piano, or rather a grand piano on stage without a pianist. We just can't stage a good performance in either situation.
In terms of hardware, the infrastructure projects which have long term impact and serve as major catalysts to the economic and social development should be given priority. The proper development and housing plan, a better public transportation system, an urban renewal programme and improved telecommunication infrastructure should continue to be emphasised as it will have a multiplier effect and attract more people to move into Greater KL.
The success of the Greater KL plan relies on a large population. Greater population equals to better economies of scale and a higher demand for diverse goods and services.
The aim of growing Greater KL's population from six million to 10 million by 2020 will see strong demand for housing, new commercial and financial areas and a public transportation system. Therefore, it is only logical that we build sufficient infrastructure now to prepare for that future growth.
Last year, the Government announced the Greater KL plan as one of the twelve Key Economic Areas (NKEA) identified under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP). Following this announcement, there many projects were identified to push the country towards a developed nation.
The initiatives that have been announced by the Government include the RM39bil MRT project and RM1.9bil allocation for the River of Life Programme.
These projects will help create a more efficient and beautiful city that will eventually create a better living environment for all. These plans are essential to turn the city into a lovely urban area, and the execution of the plan is key in whether the Greater KL plan is a success or failure.
All these efforts, combined with the “software development” such as increasing the skill, education and cultural level of people, growing their awareness towards environment protection and instilling a sense of belonging and ownership in them are also among the fundamental criteria to nurture our city to be on par with other global cities.
A city with superior hardware needs good talent to operate and to grow into a sustainable city.
According to the ETP update early this month, the Greater KL plan seems to progress well with the MRT ground-breaking for Sungai Buloh-Kajang line held last July, and the ongoing tender process.
To date, there are already two letters of intent from multinational corporations to relocate their headquarters to the Greater KL area, and 450 professional talents have returned to our home country under the Returning Expert Programme. These are good indicators for the city and country.
Now, back to the question which I have raised earlier “Does KL or Greater KL have the potential to become a world-class city?” With the current development and progress, I believe we are heading towards that direction though there is still a lot of room for improvement.
The route ahead is clear if we are to put the foundation right and tackle the fundamental issues, such as upgrading our infrastructure, accelerating the housing and development plan and improving our public transportation system.
A world-class city is often a significant identity of a country. It is a miniature of a country in terms of its economic, social, cultural, education and infrastructure development. Most of the time, it forms the perception people have towards that particular country.
Since a city is meant to accommodate people from all walks of life, a likeable, convenient and vibrant environment is hence a good place for all to live and work in.
For Greater KL to be a likeable city, every stakeholder in the city needs to play their part, including our citizens. Every one of us is responsible in building a clean and safe city, and to take care of it as if it is our own home.
One must remember that we are the valuable “software” that ensures the city runs smoothly and effectively. Ultimately, people are still the most important element in this equation.
Datuk Alan Tong is group chairman of Bukit Kiara Properties, he was the FIABCI World president and recently named Property Man of The Year 2010 by FIABCI Malaysia.
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