Rumaizi: Transforming Ipoh from a Routine City into a Smart City
By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
Transforming Ipoh from a routine city into a dynamic and progressive metropolis has been one of the main missions of Dato’ Rumaizi Baharin since he assumed the role of Mayor of Ipoh four years ago.
The award for Best Local Authority Leadership (City Category) received in November 2023 is not just a recognition but a testament to his dedication as a leader of integrity, excellence, and responsiveness.
In an exclusive interview with Ipoh Echo/Peraktastic, the 12th Mayor of Ipoh revealed himself to be a charismatic and visionary leader dedicated to his responsibilities.
His incisive intellect and distinct vision portray him as a leader with a definitive direction in guiding the Ipoh City Council (MBI).
Strategic Planning of Ipoh City Council 2021.
Rumaizi emphasized that to achieve a developed and competitive city status, MBI must not only act as a routine executor but must transition to more creative, innovative, and global approaches.
“Mentality change is the main focus, and I believe it can change many things, including new ideas that can improve residents’ quality of life.
“The plan to make Ipoh a smart city by 2030 aligns with the Global Agenda, as well as the desires of the Federal, State, and Local Governments.
“The Ipoh Smart City Plan for 2030 is one of the seven main benchmarks in the Ipoh City Council’s Strategic Planning 2021. This strategic plan aims to lead Ipoh towards the ‘Bestari Sejahtera’ concept, prioritizing citizen well-being and urban sustainability in a global context, consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“This plan is developed based on the aspirations of stakeholders and city residents, emphasizing more holistic, systematic, and inclusive goals in outlining five strategic pillars to strengthen the delivery system smartly, effectively, and dynamically,” he said.
He further explained that the Ipoh City Council Strategic Planning 2021 sets major targets to make Ipoh the Cleanest City in Malaysia by 2023; the Leading Tourism City in the country by 2025; to have the best digital infrastructure; other facilities in the country by 2027, to be a Smart City; Low Carbon City; ‘Bestari Sejahtera’ City by 2030 and achieving high-income city status in the same year.
Attracting Investors
The tourism and arts sectors have the potential to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI) and domestic direct investment (DDI), boosting the local and state economy.
Rumaizi is confident that Ipoh’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions are key assets in attracting investments in these two sectors.
“Investment in the tourism and arts sectors opens many new job opportunities, from jobs in hotels and restaurants to positions in the arts and entertainment industry. This will help reduce unemployment rates and increase local incomes.
“FDI in the tourism sector brings new technologies and expertise, such as efficient tourism management technologies and contemporary art techniques, which help improve the quality of local services and products.
“Investment in the arts sector will encourage the development of the creative industry in Ipoh, promoting local culture through art events, and attracting tourists. It allows local artists to market their works internationally, making Ipoh a renowned art hub.
“Investment in the arts sector will develop the creative industry in Ipoh, promote local culture, and attract tourists, making Ipoh a renowned art hub,” he stated.
Observing the Smart City Rating Award and the UNESCO Creative City Network (UCCN) recognition, it is clear that these achievements are not just symbolic successes but tangible evidence that innovation and creativity-focused approaches have a significant impact.
Addressing Infrastructure and Urban Poverty Issues
Rumaizi also touched on Ipoh’s transition from the mining industry to service sectors such as tourism and healthcare, demonstrating a mature long-term strategy for diversifying the city’s economy.
However, he acknowledges that success does not come without challenges. Financial constraints are a reality, and he adopts a pragmatic approach to addressing infrastructure and urban poverty issues.
“Focusing on increasing people’s income and attracting external investments is a wise strategic step in advancing Ipoh comprehensively.
“Initiatives to develop the tourism, healthcare, and digital sectors are crucial steps in attracting investments and strengthening the city’s economy.
“Rapid growth in the healthcare and tourism sectors, along with proactive efforts in addressing community issues, infrastructure, and waste management, indicate that Ipoh is on the right track to achieving greater success in the future.
Overall, the vision and action plan of the Mayor of Ipoh reflects a dynamic and innovative approach to city development.
For him, every success lies not only in the awards received but also in the change in mentality and continuous collective efforts to ensure Ipoh continues to grow and prosper.
