The Federal Territories Ministry will collaborate with architects to recreate public spaces in KL, focusing on infrastructure for health and community well-being.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) plans to collaborate with the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) to explore new ideas for recreating public spaces in the capital.
Minister Hannah Yeoh said the partnership will focus on ensuring infrastructure supports daily activities and the well-being of city residents.
“We are going to work with PAM to look into recreating public spaces in KL,” she told reporters after officiating the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival (KLAF) 2026 launch.
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She stated such facilities are essential for encouraging a healthy lifestyle among Kuala Lumpur’s population.
“If you want to create a healthy lifestyle here, you’ve got to make sure that the infrastructure is there to support that kind of lifestyle,” Yeoh added.
She said the collaboration will involve stakeholders to develop new concepts for public spaces.
In her speech, Yeoh noted that reshaping Kuala Lumpur within a limited timeframe requires close collaboration with professionals beyond the civil service.
“I don’t have five years, but I have to reshape KL. I know I cannot do it on my own or just with civil servants, I have to work with professionals like you,” she said.
She described architects as key players in reimagining space and shaping future culture.
Drawing on her previous ministerial experience, Yeoh said meaningful transformation requires time, courage and a willingness to try new approaches.
“Transforming Malaysia takes time and requires the courage to go out of the norm, doing new things,” she stated.
She emphasised that listening to industry partners is crucial for achieving sustainable outcomes.
The collaboration will also examine broader issues including public housing design, public toilets and facilities that enable more women to exercise.
“If we want women to exercise and live healthier lifestyles in KL, we need facilities such as public showers,” Yeoh said.
Organised by PAM, the year-long KLAF 2026 celebrates architecture, design, creativity and public engagement under the theme “Future Culture”. – Bernama
