Malaysia urged to officially gazette over 15,000ha of public open spaces

PUTRAJAYA — Authorities are being urged to accelerate the formal gazetting of public open spaces in Peninsular Malaysia, with over 15,000 hectares currently awaiting official designation. The move would represent approximately 64.47 per cent of all public open spaces identified in the peninsula, according to recent assessments. Government agencies and state administrations have been identified as key players in ensuring these areas receive proper legal status and protection. The gazetting process is crucial for safeguarding public green spaces from unauthorised development and ensuring their preservation for community use. Officials have indicated that completing the formal designation would strengthen legal frameworks governing land use and environmental conservation across the country. The initiative comes as Malaysian authorities seek to balance urban development with the need to maintain adequate public recreational facilities and green areas for residents.