Malaysian delegation head to UK to unlock global secrets of sustainable cities, urban regeneration

KUALA LUMPUR: A delegation of developers, urban planners, legal experts and government representatives will travel to the United Kingdom (UK) this week to study some of the world's leading examples of urban regeneration, transit-oriented development (TOD), and sustainable housing.

The mission, led by Rehda Institute, will take place from March 19 to 25 and will give participants firsthand exposure to large-scale regeneration projects, integrated urban districts and innovative housing models that could help shape the future of urban development in Malaysia.

Among the key sites are internationally recognised developments led by Malaysian companies, including Embassy Gardens by EcoWorld Development Group Bhd, Royal Mint Gardens by IJM Corp Bhd, Brabazon by YTL Developments, and purpose-built student accommodation in Woolwich developed by Gamuda Land.

According to Rehda Institute, the visits will provide practical insights into urban regeneration, adaptive reuse projects, purpose-built rental housing and the development of integrated urban districts — lessons that could be applied to Malaysia's housing and redevelopment priorities.

The institute said the study mission comes at a critical time as Malaysia advances urban regeneration initiatives, implements strata law reforms and introduces policies aimed at improving public transport connectivity, easing congestion and enhancing urban liveability.

"This study tour is relevant for gaining critical international insights and understanding best practices and benchmarks for adaptation, which are essential for elevating Malaysia's human capital and expertise in the housing, and built environment sectors," said Datuk Jeffrey Ng Tiong Lip, chairman of Rehda Institute.

"As our urban landscapes evolve and grow in complexity, industry stakeholders require profound practical knowledge and innovative strategies in urban planning and regeneration, heritage conservation and social/ public housing delivery. By fostering direct engagement with UK policymakers and experts, we are empowering our leaders to create more resilient, liveable, and strategically developed Malaysian cities."

The delegation will also travel to Bath to attend a Sustainability & Water Management Forum hosted by Wessex Water in collaboration with YTL Developments, focusing on sustainable infrastructure and water management systems.

The mission will conclude in Cambridge, England with a Housing & Urban Planning Forum co-organised with the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University, providing a platform for Malaysian leaders to exchange ideas with global experts on planning innovation and sustainable housing delivery.

Ho Hon Sang, president of REHDA Malaysia, said international exposure allows the industry to benchmark against global best practices.

"Exposure to international experiences allows our industry to adapt best practices to local development realities and elevate our standards," he said.

The programme also features four strategic forums across the UK. In London, delegates will engage with Foster + Partners on TOD, urban regeneration, and planning strategies, and meet with Tom Copley, deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development.

Another session organised by Trowers & Hamlins will delve into UK urban regeneration laws and governance frameworks, offering critical comparative insights for Malaysia's own housing and planning reforms.