KUCHING, Sept 19 - Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has issued a call to real estate developers in Sarawak, encouraging them to embrace Green Building Index (GBI) certification for the potential to boost property values and promote sustainable urban development.
Addressing a gala dinner held in conjunction with the 25th Asean Valuers Association (AVA) Congress, Premier Abang Johari emphasized the multifaceted benefits of GBI certification. He highlighted its role in enhancing property values while simultaneously contributing to thoughtful city planning and creating an improved living environment for residents.
"It is our desire to have a city that is not too cramped but more widespread. We have to control certain heights of the building and ensure efficient traffic flow in specific areas," he stated.
He went on to underscore the importance of sustainable energy production, with hope that Sarawak could harness its strengths in this area.
"Hopefully, we will be able to produce green energy where we have the strength, and against that background, we are also encouraging our real estate developers to produce GBI-certified buildings, and that will automatically increase the value of the building itself," he added.
Premier Abang Johari also stressed the necessity of collaboration with industry professionals such as valuers, architects, and engineers to establish a standardized approach to city planning that prioritizes citizen well-being. He suggested that Asean countries could cooperate in developing a unified methodology for property valuation.
Highlighting the importance of adhering to standard planning procedures, particularly in the Kuching area, Premier Abang Johari emphasized the need for creating a friendly city with not only aesthetically pleasing design but also efficient communication and transport infrastructure.
"If you have a good locality but the environment is not conducive, the price might not be as much as you expect," he said.
Sarawak is committed to implementing a green economy, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability, as outlined in the Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030, aimed at establishing smart cities that prioritize eco-friendly urban development.
Looking ahead to the AVA Congress, Premier Abang Johari expressed optimism that the event would foster innovative ideas for transforming city planning, with a particular emphasis on integrating property valuation as a core component.
"I'm sure within Asean, we will have beautiful cities among us, and Indonesia's Nusantara is just next door to Kuching," he said.
Sumber dari : Sarawakku