Ipoh wins award for sustainable landscaping initiative

The Star

30-05-2025

THE Ipoh City Council (MBI) has received the Honour Award in the Green Initiatives Award – Government Sector category at the 15th Malaysia Landscape Architecture Awards (MLAA) recently.
The award was presented during the 15th MLAA ceremony on Saturday (May 24) by Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia former president Datuk Ismail Ngah.
Ipoh mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah said this recognition reflects the city council's continued commitment to implementing nature-based solutions in developing sustainable and holistic urban landscapes.
"The project titled 'Bamboo: A Sustainable Solution for Green Landscape' highlights bamboo as a sustainable alternative material.
"It's not only used in creating landscape furniture but also integrated with shade tree planting efforts to absorb carbon, enhance urban biodiversity, and mitigate the effects of the urban heat island phenomenon," he said in his speech at the council's full board meeting on Friday (May 30).
In modern landscape architecture, where sustainability is increasingly prioritised, he said landscape design has evolved beyond aesthetics to also encompass ecological functions and environmental responsibility.
"This shift is driven by growing public awareness of climate change, biodiversity loss, and the urgent need for development that aligns with nature.
"MBI hopes this milestone will serve as a catalyst in its ongoing efforts to transform Ipoh into a smart and sustainable city by 2030, guided by innovation, sustainability and the well-being of all citizens," he said.
On a separate matter, he said MBI is inviting the public to contribute ideas and suggestions for next year's budget that will support the city's competitiveness and development.
"Suggestions can be submitted via the council's website or by scanning the QR code available on the city council's official portal.
"These contributions will serve as key input in formulating the council's upcoming budget to better meet the needs of city residents. Submissions are open until June 30," he added.
He also said recent records show that many property owners have yet to settle their assessment tax for the year, with some still owing taxes from previous years.
"The council urges property owners facing financial hardship to come forward and discuss payment options to avoid enforcement action," he added.
He said such action against defaulters could include the seizure of movable property.
He added that a warrant fee of RM150 will be applied for arrears under RM1,000, while arrears over RM1,000 will incur a RM300 fee.
In conjunction with Ipoh City's 37th anniversary celebration, he said MBI is offering a 70% discount on compounds for residents.
The discount period ends on Saturday (May 31).