2 days ago
Two Melaka neighbourhoods picked for climate-risk action plan
TWO neighbourhoods under the Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB), namely Kampung Morten and Pantai Peringgit, have been selected for a community action plan.
The plan aims to enhance resilience to climate risks, such as heatwaves, floods and address the lack of safe public spaces.
Deputy state science, technology, innovation and digital communications committee chairman Datuk Mohd Noor Helmy Abdul Halem said the plan was the result of collaborative research and engagement efforts, including discussions, workshops, risk assessments and participation from various levels of the community since 2023.
'Among the initial high-impact projects under this plan is the repainting of the Pantai Peringgit apartment building using heat-reflective paint technology, which can help reduce indoor temperatures, create a more comfortable living environment and save energy.
'In addition, the installation of environmental heat sensors is also planned, to allow real-time temperature monitoring and to support rapid response efforts by both the authorities and local community,' he told Bernama.
Earlier, he launched the plan under the Urban Climate Resilience Programme (UCRP) for Community, which was attended by Melaka mayor Datuk Shahdan Othman.
Mohd Noor Helmy said that the plan was developed through collaboration between MBMB, Resilient Cities Network, Z Zurich Foundation and Zurich Malaysia under the UCRP.
He said the plan also focused on community education initiatives, including disaster preparedness training, climate change-themed murals and proposals for the development of 'pocket parks' – small green spaces in urban areas designed to enhance the local social and ecological environment.
'This approach allows us to identify not only the challenges faced by residents, but also their aspirations and the most suitable solutions.
'It also serves as a guideline and marks the beginning of a broader ongoing effort.'
