Town Hall Meeting

MBPJ created another history on participatory planning. Last Monday saw the presence of councillors, media, residents groups, NGO, consultants and developers in the "town hall" alike meeting. The stakeholders were given the opportunities to listen to developers and consultants on their proposed projects and then to provide their feedback. It is the first time that media is allowed to attend to cover the proceedings. It is also the first time that even non affected parties are permitted to attend and to voice out.

I believe it is the right way towards good governance, transparency and accountability. Residents have the chance to have direct engagement with the project proponents, and the project proponents have the opportunities to consider views put up by the residents. MBPJ is having the opportunities to listen to both sides of the stories before making an informed decision. Of course the reporting by media will help to alert residents and stakeholders on future development of Petaling Jaya. No doubt all parties are happy and hope this practice of calling all concerned for an open hearing can be continued and extended to other programmes.

Achieving sustainable development requires smart partnership and participation. Without trustworthy partnership and meaningful participation, it is difficult to ensure a livable and sustainable city of PJ for all. While participation is important, the component of sustainable development should not be forgetting. For example, while all parties might agree of constructing a building, the building must have becoming an asset rather than liability to the further environmental deterioration. Elements such as energy efficiency, greenery, sustainable construction, healthy and user friendly building, zero waste, zero carbon emission and others should also be looking into.