By Danial Dzulkilfy
SHAH ALAM, Nov 10 — In a strategic move to manage urban growth complexities, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari has announced plans to introduce an enactment to formalise the creation of the Greater Klang Valley.
The envisaged conurbation will encompass Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, and Klang, the latter of which is pending its city status approval from the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj.
Amirudin said the state will allocate RM2 million to this end under the 2024 Selangor Budget.
The establishment of the Greater Klang Valley is crucial to, among other things, streamlining the administrative processes for businesses and residents, rejuvenating mature cities, implementing a digital twin system for government administration, and promoting public transportation.
The move will also optimise government resources to reduce overlap, as well as establish inclusive local administrations that are elderly, disabled persons, and child-friendly, with the ultimate goal of becoming Malaysia’s first low-carbon city.
He said the initiative is crucial as it is also tailored to address the multifaceted challenges stemming from rapid urbanisation and mass migration since Selangor is currently home to about seven million residents.
Amirudin also announced plans to introduce a Local Authorities Service Commission, with a bill expected to be tabled by the third quarter of next year.
This initiative is designed to boost the local authorities’ responsiveness and efficiency, particularly in addressing public complaints, including shortening response time to 24 hours.
