PUTRAJAYA: A plan and an index to outline development will be put to work to ensure that while Malaysia achieves its prosperous nation goals, the people’s well-being will also be taken care of, says the Prime Minister.

       The National Physical Plan outlines spatial development policies that are in line with the 12th Malaysia Plan, which aims for the country to be economically, environmentally and socially resilient.

       The Malaysia Livability Index is the authorities’ urban planning “checkbox” so that all goals and targets set for a development are met, he added.

       Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob used an analogy to stress the importance of careful planning on matters involving national development.

       “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail. Planning needs to be done strategically and holistically, with all aspects are covered so that development goals can be achieved,” he said at the centennial celebration of town planning in Malaysia.

       “Having a plan and an index in place not only reflects the country’s global commitment towards sustainable development, but will also be the coordinating instrument between the federal and state governments,” he added.

       The National Physical Plan – the fourth such document to date – spells out three core developments, 11 strategic directions and 39 actions to guarantee the people’s well-being.

       The Livability Index will ensure that issues such as last-mile connectivity, Internet facilities and access to public facilities are looked into in development or urban planning.

       In his speech, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Reezan Merican Naina Merican said the urban planning agenda must now be “pandemic-resilient”.“In the post-pandemic era, the element of urban resilience – particularly in the aspects of housing and public spaces – must be made a priority,” he pointed out.

       Reezal said the minstry would prioritise the Liveable Malaysia agenda so that the people could experience both sustainable development and conducive living conditions.

       “People’s housing agenda will also be a top priority, with housing programmes for the low- income group to continue with the RM1.5bil allocation under Budget 2022,” he added.Meanwhile, at another event, Ismail Sabri revealed that he has a soft spot for children.

       “I adore them and believe they are God’s gift to us,” he told attendees of the World Children’s Day 2021 celebration here yesterday.With his four-year-old granddaughter Jeanelle Nika Mandagie in tow, he took time off from his busy schedule to honour children at a luncheon at the Parliament banquet hall.

       “I strongly believe every child has the basic right to education and to thrive, be carefree and develop into individuals who can reach their full potential and pursue their dreams.

       “We all have an important role to play in creating a good environment and building a better place for the children,” he added.

       He said while Covid-19 had caused great changes across the globe, it had not shaken the common determination to advance the protection and promotion of children’s well-being.According to official records, between June 2020 and August this year, 1,721 child sexual abuse cases were recorded, while 2,162 active cases were on trial.