PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s urbanisation rate has reached 78.5 per cent and is projected to exceed 85 per cent by 2040.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said this marks significant progress compared to the country’s urbanisation rate of only 28 per cent in 1970.
He said by 2040, it is projected that more than 80 per cent of Malaysians will live in urban areas.
“Therefore, good town planning must be evaluated based on public access to public amenities, daily commute convenience, and the provision of safe public spaces.
“The needs of senior citizens and persons with disabilities must also be emphasised to ensure urban development is inclusive and considers the welfare of all segments of society,” he said when speaking at the World Town Planning Day 2026 and the launch of the Fifth National Physical Plan (RFN5) and the Third National Urbanisation Policy (DPN3) here today.
The event was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Nga said in line with these aspirations, the ministry, through PlanMalaysia, spearheaded the preparation of the two key documents, RFN5 and DPN3.
“I express my gratitude to all parties who contributed views and expertise through comprehensive engagement sessions.
“Both policies were formulated based on current realities, future challenges, and the aspirations of the people,” he said.
Nga said both documents serve as a national development compass aligned with the Malaysia Madani aspiration to assist in the nation’s planning, physical development, and urbanisation.
He said the policies also take into account the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the New Urban Agenda, and the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
He said the effort aligns with the Madani Economy framework to elevate Malaysia into the world’s top 30 economies, while balancing rapid development with environmental sustainability and the well-being of the people.