KOTA KINABALU: Taking steps towards realising the vision to turn Sabah's biggest city into a world-class, livable city is a shared duty.

Among the tasks are to transform KK City into a flourishing urban centre that is inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Hj Aman underlined the role of public participation in the planning process of urban development in the state which is in line with the aim of the government to gain public feedback on development plans before it gets approved for implementation.

"We remain committed to structuring development plans to fulfil the needs of the people by expanding the capacity of the civil sector in promoting public involvement to identify and resolve problems while providing innovative and comprehensive solutions to issues faced" he said.

The text of Musa's speech was delivered by Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Hajiji Bin Haji Mohd Noor while officiating at the State Planning Conference 2017 themed ‘Public Participation towards Livable Cities in Sabah'.

Musa noted the achievement by the Federal Department of Town Planning for the completion of the Sabah Structural Plan 2033 which has received approval from the government.

"This comprehensive blueprint outlines the planning policies on physical and social development at the macro level as a roadmap encompassing government ministries, departments, agencies and local authorities, private and public sector in the state for the next 20 years" he said.

Furthermore, he noted the structural plan is an essential first step towards realising the aspirations of the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak in steering the nation towards achieving its National Transformation 2050 (TN50).

Therefore, Musa said the government emphasised in seeking the feedback from the people in giving their views and work closely with the government in steering the state towards achieving the status of world-class, livable cities throughout Sabah.

Meanwhile, State Director of the Federal Department of Urban Development, Hj Murshidi Hj Sapie stressed the importance for cities in the state to become conducive and thriving centres to live and work.

This needs to meet the demand from its rapidly growing population which is set to reach 5.5 million by 2033, according to Sabah Structural Plan.

"This data shows that Sabah needs to be prepared by formulating effective spatial strategies to address increasing pressures on infrastructure capacity, housing and societal needs, services, food cost and be attentive to the changing environment" he added.

To achieve the aim of a modern and livable city, Murshidi noted proper planning and developmental strategies are integral to ensure cities and towns can fully accommodate the rising needs of its citizens so they can enjoy higher incomes, better work satisfaction while living in a safe, healthy environment with supportive and inclusive communities.

Commenting on plans for the Tanjung Aru Eco Development (TAED), Musa said the landmark project went through a series of public consultation and received ‘positive views'.

"This is a clear testament of the State Government's sincerity in helping the public in getting accurate and factual information on the project" he said.

Musa also called on the local authorities and relevant federal agencies to make use of the advancement of communication technology to continue engaging the people through public-friendly platforms.

Among those who attended the event include Sabah State Secretary, Tan Sri Sukarti Wakiman and Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who is also Minister of Infrastructure Development.