Miri strengthens sustainable urban development through ASUS Phase II

MIRI, Oct 29: Miri City strengthens the agenda for sustainable and resilient urban development through the implementation of ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy (ASUS) Phase II pioneering project under Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) initiative.

Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang said that Miri was among 15 cities selected in the ASEAN region to participate in the initiative aimed at strengthening the city's capacity to address the challenges of rapid urbanisation and climate change.

He said that urban growth also brings environmental challenges including urban floods, peatland fires, landslides and coastal erosion which affect the safety and well-being of communities.

"These challenges not only involve infrastructure and public services, but also impact on search points, economic productivity and overall well-being of the community", he said while addressing the ASUS Phase II Pioneer Project Launch Council under the Smart City (KSC) Initiative, here today.

He added that urban flooding remains among Miri's major challenges following increased rainfall intensity, capacity constraints of the paring system, rapid droughts and impacts of climate change.

In this regard, flood mitigation is identified as among the priorities in ASUS Phase II implementation through a nature-based solution approach or Nature-Based Solutions (NBS).

Obviously, the approach includes wetland restoration, construction of rainforests, green corridors, water-scarce wetlands and reservoirs to improve the city's ability to absorb and contain rainwater.

"This solution not only helps reduce flood risk, but also improves water quality, preserves urban biodiversity and reduces the impact of heat islands, while creating healthier and greener environments for communities", he said.

Miri also continued the initiatives of Children's Friendly City since 2022 in collaboration with UNICEF Malaysia, as well as strengthening efforts to create a golden citizen friendly environment through provision of accessible public facilities and community engagement programs.

"ASUS Phase II provides an important platform for us to build cooperation, share expertise and translate ideas into actions that bring long-term benefits to society and the environment", he said.

Based on the 2025 Forecast, Miri recorded an estimated 250,000 inhabitants with 94 percent of them living in urban areas, thus increasing the need for more sustainable development planning. - TVS