PUTRAJAYA, July 7 — The Royal Town Planning and Development Guidelines (GPP) were introduced today to preserve the identity of royal towns as a symbol of national sovereignty.
Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming said the GPP, which would be used by the nine royal towns in Peninsular Malaysia, was approved at the May 17 cabinet meeting as a guide that covered aspects of heritage, identity, economy and tourism.
The royal towns besides Klang are Arau in Perlis, Anak Bukit in Kedah, Kuala Kangsar in Perak, Seri Menanti in Negeri Sembilan, Muar in Johor, Kubang Kerian in Kelantan, Kuala Terengganu in Terengganu, and Pekan in Pahang.
Nga told a press conference today that the adoption of the GPP will ensure royal towns are preserved as national heritage sites.
The GPP outlines controls on the intensity of development in royal towns, the provision of main components and supporting elements such as galleries, museums, squares and sculptures, as well as building and landscape architecture parameters to further enhance the towns’ potential, image and identities.
Nga said royal towns can become tourist attractions by highlighting their uniqueness.
He said the GPP will be presented at the chief ministers’ meeting on July 11 and the Conference of Malay Rulers meeting on July 12 to convey efforts to dignify the royal institution of Malaysia.
Nga also said he has sought an audience with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah to inform His Majesty about the guidelines.
“With careful planning, I expect the nine royal towns can use (the guidelines), which will be promoted by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry,” he said.
When asked about projects in royal towns after the GPP is introduced, Nga said development will not be limited, but certain controls will be imposed, adding that these projects must reflect the beauty of the country’s heritage.
— Bernama
