Local authorities assist to localise SDG - Saifuddin

JOHOR BAHRU, March 3  -- The Foreign Ministry is working closely with stakeholders, including local authorities (PBT) in an effort to localise Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in the country.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah, said the move was vital to ensure planning and implementation by PBT were in line with the government's efforts to ensure sustainable urban development.

"For many cities, including Johor Bahru, SDG is not new, and the SDG development in Johor is very good as it is already in progress.

"Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) has made an encouraging effort, especially in reducing the level of carbon emission by 19.7 per cent, and this achievement is important for us to discuss climate change,” he said.

Saifuddin was speaking to reporters after a discussion with Johor Bahru Mayor Datuk Mohd Noorazam Osman and MBJB representatives here today.

In the effort to promote Johor Bahru as a smart city on the global stage, Saifuddin said he was attracted to the strategic cooperation between four local authorities in achieving the aspirations of The Greater JB.

He said the cooperation between MBJB, Iskandar Puteri City Council, Pasir Gudang City Council and Kulai Municipal Council would be a pillar to the development of Johor.

 "The JB area is closest to Singapore and taking into account bilateral relations, the development of ‘The Greater JB’ and activities from this project can help the ministry to promote the development of this city," he said.

-- BERNAMA