Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar hopes that the 'Rising Malaysia Capital's Cultural Heritage' plan (Warisan KL) launched on Friday can be implemented rapidly, while also considering the needs and comfort of the people.
He stated that although the plan aims to promote the renovation and development of Kuala Lumpur and enhance the development of a modern nation, it should not ignore the people, cultural heritage, and cultural values.
"We want to implement this plan as quickly as possible because we want Malaysia to initiate a framework and planning that is modern and incorporates new technology, but at the same time, it should be deeply rooted in local cultural heritage and culture to bring convenience to the broader public."
"These cultural heritages must ensure the comfort of the people, include green spaces, their safety, beautiful fields, and spaces suitable for walking and cycling. We want to create a modern and innovative city that is not meant to please a particular class but to satisfy the needs of the entire population."
He stated this today (25th) at the plan launch held by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). Attendees included the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department in charge of Federal Territories, Datuk Seri Zaleha, the Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali, and KL Mayor Datuk Seri Mahadi.
The Prime Minister noted that development aspects should not only focus on attracting tourists and elite participation while sidelining the broader public.
"We don't deny that Malaysia, especially Kuala Lumpur, needs to attract tourists and people, including the upper class; having 7-star hotels or luxury restaurants is not an issue. But we cannot assume that development is solely focused in that direction, as 80% of our population frequents small stalls, food stalls, and small restaurants, yet they receive little attention."
"Therefore, I emphasize to the Kuala Lumpur City Hall that small stalls and food stalls must be clean, conform to strict standards, and be beautified so that the 75% to 80% of the people who visit them feel respected."
The Kuala Lumpur Cultural Heritage Plan is a strategic initiative aimed at transforming the historical districts concentrated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur into cultural and creative zones, guided by the 2040 Kuala Lumpur Local Plan and advancing a culture-oriented urban development model.
Through ten flagship pilot projects, the Kuala Lumpur Cultural Heritage aims to build Kuala Lumpur as an inclusive, interconnected global creative city that highlights Malaysian characteristics.
The plan includes five major areas known as the Core Zone (zon Teras), each with unique characteristics and functions, supported by surrounding Buffer Zones (zon Penampan), comprising multiple iconic landmarks and urban spaces to reinforce the historical district's features.
It adopts a culture-based urban renewal approach to replanning urban space and creating vibrant creative and cultural destinations, aligned with the progressive, inclusive, and sustainable vision of a Rising Malaysia.
Key flagship projects include the Merdeka Square Heritage Area, National Welcome Centre, Merdeka 118 Tower, Masjid Jamek, Tun Razak Memorial, and Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, among others.