Monday, October 26, 2009

Sustainable Planning Profession


Planning Students Assembly funded by the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP), the umbrella body for practicing planners in Malaysia was held last Saturday at UITM, Shah Alam. The attendance by students from local planning schools was overwhelming. I saw a brighter prospect for planning profession in Malaysia, and more so after witnessing how active the students took part in question and answer session. Planners are championing the challenges of sustainable development, that is how to plan and develop a sustainable, liveable and healthy township. While this is ultimate aim of planners to contribute towards sustainability, without having a constant supply of quality, competent and high integrity of planners it will not be an easy task. I was particularly happy with the performance of students from institutions teaching subjects with English medium since first semester. I notice that these students are very confident in articulating issues and presenting their views. Perhaps it is the way forward, by enhancing the learning of soft skills amongst planning students.

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