Latest news with #UrbanPlanning
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Jordan: Cabinet approves amendments to urban planning bylaw, launches major water projects in Irbid, Zarqa
AMMAN — The Cabinet, during a session chaired by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Saturday, approved the rationale for a draft amendment to the Building and Urban and Village Planning Bylaw for 2025, to be submitted to the Legislation and Opinion Bureau for formal issuance. The proposed amendments include extending the grace period for licensing existing buildings until the bylaw is officially endorsed, according to a Prime Ministry statement. The amendments also seek to facilitate the establishment of investment projects outside designated zoning areas by reducing the required road width for tourism-related developments located along multiple roads. Additional proposed amendments include increasing the permissible building ratio on small plots of land outside zoning boundaries and establishing front setbacks for secondary buildings on agricultural land holdings. The Cabinet also approved the issuance of necessary authorisations to proceed with a tender for the water management, distribution, and wastewater project in Irbid Governorate. The project's first phase would include the construction of main pipelines serving the areas of Irbid, Aydoun, Al Sareeh, Huwwarah, Bushra, Sal, and Hakamah. It will also cover the implementation of distribution networks, a transmission pipeline, and a main reservoir in Ramtha, the statement said. The Cabinet gave the green light for the implementation of the Zarqa Valley Wastewater Treatment Plant project. Once completed, the new facility would become the second-largest wastewater treatment plant in Jordan, after the Khirbet Al Samra plant, with a total design capacity of 365,000 cubic meters per day. The project would be executed in two phases, with the first scheduled for completion in 2030 and the second in 2035. Upon operation, the new plant would allow for the decommissioning of several pumping stations in western and eastern Zarqa, resulting in an estimated JD5.6 million in annual electricity savings, the statement said. The station is expected to significantly enhance wastewater infrastructure in Zarqa Governorate and parts of Amman, while boosting the network's capacity to handle increasing water volumes delivered through the National Carrier Project. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Ya Biladi
6 days ago
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
Moroccan Urban Planning Minister denies conflict in Marrakech land sale amid Jabaroot leaks
Amid the controversy triggered by leaks from a group calling itself «Jabaroot», which claims to be «Algerian», targeting Morocco's Minister of National Territorial Planning, Urban Planning, Housing, and City Policy, Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri has issued an official response denying any suspicion of conflict of interest related to a major real estate sale involving her family near Marrakech. She emphasized that the transaction was legal, transparent, and had no connection to her government role. The leaked document, widely circulated online, originates from a notary's office in Marrakech and confirms that El Mansouri and her brothers, Zouhair and Saad, sold more than 66 hectares of land in 2023 in the Tassoultante, a small town near Marrakech, for a total of 266.17 million dirhams. The documents indicate that the land is officially classified as agricultural and not eligible for construction under current zoning rules. The contract notes that the buyers were explicitly informed by the notary to check with authorities whether construction would be permitted, and that they would be responsible for doing so. Critics have since accused El Mansouri of using her influence after the land was reportedly converted into two real estate projects. In her statement, El Mansouri stressed that the property is neither state-owned nor under her ministerial oversight. She explained that it was inherited from her late father, Moulay Abderrahmane El Mansouri, who purchased the land from private individuals in 1978. «Contrary to what's been falsely claimed in these malicious leaks, the land was not acquired from the state or any public institution», she said in remarks reviewed by Yabiladi. She added that the land was sold legally by the heirs following their mother's death in 2023, with all transactions properly declared to tax authorities. «The family's appointed agent sold the land in a transparent, legal manner. All sales were declared to the tax office, which collected the appropriate fees. The proceeds were reinvested in Marrakech in clearly declared and legitimate projects», Fatima Zahra El Mansouri. Mansouri further clarified that the property lies outside the boundaries of the Marrakech municipality, which she formerly led as mayor, and stressed that the deal had no link to her political or ministerial roles. She denounced the leaks as part of a «malicious campaign» aimed at damaging her reputation and that of her family. The minister also revealed that her family's legal representative has filed a complaint against those responsible for publishing the documents, which she said were «neither verified nor truthful».
Borneo Post
20-07-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
S'wak wants to protect biodiversity through proactive, enforceable systems — Len Talif
Len Talif (centre) with Unwin (second left), Abang Arabi (second right) and others at the symbolic launch of the 17th OVAG Workshop. — Photo via SFC Facebook KUCHING (July 21): The Sarawak government will continue to champion evidence-based policymaking and integrate conservation priorities into legislation, development frameworks and community planning to support wildlife conservation. Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said Sarawak aims to protect, not just preserve, its biodiversity through proactive, inclusive and enforceable systems. 'In Sarawak, we believe that effective conservation cannot stand apart from policy. It must be part of broader governance—urban planning, sustainable land use and environmental stewardship,' he said at the 17th Orangutan Veterinary Advisory Group (OVAG) workshop held at a hotel here yesterday. Len Talif said habitat loss, emerging diseases, climate change and transboundary were the challenges Sarawak faces in wildlife conservation. Given this, he said workshops like OVAG were more than technical events since they are investments in human capital. 'By building the capacity of veterinarians, rangers and researchers through practical learning and peer exchange, OVAG is helping to build a regional ecosystem of expertise that can respond effectively to crises, conduct high-quality research, and lead change on the ground,' he said. With this, he said Sarawak takes pride in partnering with OVAG and the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) in this important initiative, adding that this partnership must go further. Len Talif added that Sarawak envisions long-term collaboration—joint research, conservation strategy development, training hubs and even field innovation centres—to support both orangutan welfare and broader wildlife health. Meanwhile, OVAG co-founder Steve Unwin said the group began with a simple but powerful idea that collaboration across borders and disciplines could elevate the care and conservation of orangutans, gibbons and other wildlife. Founded by passionate individuals who saw the need for a united health voice, he said OVAG has grown into a vibrant, global community of practice. 'Our community has grown from 30 participants in the first workshop in 2009, to over 400 now who had joined our workshop until this year's 17th event. 'We are more than a network—we are a family bound not just by technical expertise, but by a shared culture of care, respect and belonging. We celebrate our similarities, embrace our differences and recognise that together, we are mighty,' he said. Earlier, SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said their teams were in the field daily tracking, rescuing and rehabilitating orangutans from the rugged forests of Batang Ai to the critical habitats in Lanjak Entimau and Ulu Sebuyau. He pointed out that their efforts were only made possible through strong veterinary partnerships, be it treating injured orangutans, conducting routine checks or responding to disease threats. 'One of our goals is to empower young Sarawakians to lead in conservation science. Through OVAG's inclusive platform, they gain exposure, mentorship and the confidence to take on future challenges. 'Together, we are building not just skills but a regional community ready to face crises, protect wildlife and shape a better future,' he said. biodiversity Len Talif Salleh wildlife conservation
Borneo Post
20-07-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Len Talif: S'wak wants to protect biodiversity through proactive, enforceable systems
Len Talif (centre) with Unwin (second left), Abang Arabi (second right) and others at the symbolic launch of the 17th OVAG Workshop. — Photo via SFC Facebook KUCHING (July 21): The Sarawak government will continue to champion evidence-based policymaking and integrate conservation priorities into legislation, development frameworks and community planning to support wildlife conservation. Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said Sarawak aims to protect, not just preserve, its biodiversity through proactive, inclusive and enforceable systems. 'In Sarawak, we believe that effective conservation cannot stand apart from policy. It must be part of broader governance—urban planning, sustainable land use and environmental stewardship,' he said at the 17th Orangutan Veterinary Advisory Group (OVAG) workshop held at a hotel here yesterday. Len Talif said habitat loss, emerging diseases, climate change and transboundary were the challenges Sarawak faces in wildlife conservation. Given this, he said workshops like OVAG were more than technical events since they are investments in human capital. 'By building the capacity of veterinarians, rangers and researchers through practical learning and peer exchange, OVAG is helping to build a regional ecosystem of expertise that can respond effectively to crises, conduct high-quality research, and lead change on the ground,' he said. With this, he said Sarawak takes pride in partnering with OVAG and the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) in this important initiative, adding that this partnership must go further. Len Talif added that Sarawak envisions long-term collaboration—joint research, conservation strategy development, training hubs and even field innovation centres—to support both orangutan welfare and broader wildlife health. Meanwhile, OVAG co-founder Steve Unwin said the group began with a simple but powerful idea that collaboration across borders and disciplines could elevate the care and conservation of orangutans, gibbons and other wildlife. Founded by passionate individuals who saw the need for a united health voice, he said OVAG has grown into a vibrant, global community of practice. 'Our community has grown from 30 participants in the first workshop in 2009, to over 400 now who had joined our workshop until this year's 17th event. 'We are more than a network—we are a family bound not just by technical expertise, but by a shared culture of care, respect and belonging. We celebrate our similarities, embrace our differences and recognise that together, we are mighty,' he said. Earlier, SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said their teams were in the field daily tracking, rescuing and rehabilitating orangutans from the rugged forests of Batang Ai to the critical habitats in Lanjak Entimau and Ulu Sebuyau. He pointed out that their efforts were only made possible through strong veterinary partnerships, be it treating injured orangutans, conducting routine checks or responding to disease threats. 'One of our goals is to empower young Sarawakians to lead in conservation science. Through OVAG's inclusive platform, they gain exposure, mentorship and the confidence to take on future challenges. 'Together, we are building not just skills but a regional community ready to face crises, protect wildlife and shape a better future,' he said. biodiversity Len Talif Salleh wildlife conservation
Borneo Post
16-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Len Talif: Sarawak laying legal groundwork for full environmental control
Len Talif (fifth left) witnesses the exchange of MoU between Jack (fourth left), representing NREB and Sharon Chong Pau Fang, the chief operating officer of Curtin University Malaysia. MIRI (July 16): Sarawak is laying the groundwork to assume greater autonomy in environmental governance as part of its long-term commitment to sustainable development and climate action, said Datuk Len Talif Salleh. The Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment said that the state is preparing for the eventual enforcement of Article 95C of the Federal Constitution, which would allow Sarawak to independently legislate on environmental matters. 'In anticipation of this, the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly has passed the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance 2024, laying a strong legal foundation for the state's full assumption of environmental functions. 'The transition will be implemented in phases, beginning with scheduled waste management this year, followed by regulation of industrial effluents, air quality control, and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs),' he said when officiating at the Stakeholder Engagement Programme (SEP) 2025 at a hotel here yesterday. As part of the preparations, Len Talif said the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) is drafting the necessary subsidiary regulations to ensure that Sarawak is fully ready to implement and enforce these functions once the transfer of powers is formalised. Len Talif, who is also NREB deputy chairman, stressed that environmental protection is not the sole responsibility of government. 'Effective environmental governance relies not only on strong legislation but also on clear procedures, professional integrity, and a collective commitment to responsibility,' he said. He pointed out that all prescribed development activities are required to undergo EIAs, which must be site-specific and grounded in scientific principles, and these assessments are to be conducted by registered environmental consultants. He also reminded developers and project proponents to take environmental obligations seriously. 'Environmental responsibility must begin at the planning stage. Compliance with EIA terms and conditions is not optional, it is a legal and moral obligation. Environmental Monitoring Reports (EMRs) must reflect actual site conditions, and be submitted promptly, with integrity and transparency,' he said, adding that these reports are crucial for tracking compliance, identifying emerging issues, and ensuring that mitigation measures are properly implemented on the ground. Len Talif also emphasised that accurate and timely data is essential for sound environmental decision-making. 'The findings shared today on river water quality highlight the need to strengthen our monitoring systems. At present, NREB still relies heavily on manual sampling, with only one telemetric station currently in operation,' he said. He voiced full support for NREB's efforts to expand the telemetric water quality monitoring network across Sarawak. 'Real-time data is not a luxury, it is a necessity for early detection, timely intervention, and science-based environmental management. I trust this initiative will continue to receive the support and resources needed to better protect our rivers,' he said. He added that protecting rivers must be a collective responsibility, especially from those involved in land development and urban commercial activities. Touching on waste management, Len Talif revealed that a master plan on Integrated Waste Management is currently being developed to enhance the state's waste governance and align with Sarawak's climate agenda. He said that the master plan will provide a strategic framework for managing municipal solid waste, scheduled waste, as well as construction and demolition waste. 'The study, with Bintulu identified as the pilot location, is expected to be completed by the end of this year. The master plan will outline strategic directions and key actions to support Sarawak's aspiration of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, while also promoting environmental protection, resource efficiency and the adoption of circular economy practices,' he said. Meanwhile, controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak Datu Jack Liam in his welcoming speech stated that to further enhance the EIA process, NREB is currently reviewing guidelines and procedures, including forming an internal EIA Technical Evaluation Committee and developing screening guidance to support compliance with the First Schedule of the Prescribed Activities Order, 1994. 'NREB will also be improving the EIA Consultant Star Rating to raise professionalism and report quality as well as building an online EIA submission system to improve efficiency and transparency, in line with the Sarawak Public Service target of 100 per cent online services by year 2030,' he said. On the SEP, Jack noted that it is designed to enhance understanding of new environmental legislation and its requirements, to update stakeholders on NREB's initiatives to strengthen enforcement and monitoring as well as to foster partnerships and promote environmental stewardship. At the same function, Len Talif witnessed the exhange of memorandum of understanding (MoU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Curtin University Malaysia. The MoU is for cooperation in environmental research and sustainability, while the MoA is for the ecological studies of the Miri River, aimed at identifying conservation areas for the benefit of local communities. autonomy environment lead Len Talif Salleh
