By Zaki Salleh
Photo Illustration
IPOH: The Ipoh Donut Economy Program has won the UN Scroll of Honour Award for its efforts to transform Ipoh into a regenerative ‘Donut Economy City’ focused on health, the environment, and sustainable development.
This is the third time Malaysia has received this award.
Launched in March 2023 with a grant from Yayasan Hasanah, the project is a collaboration between the Planetary Health Centre of Sunway University (SCPH), Darul Ridzuan Institute (IDR), People of Remarkable Talent (PORT), and Ipoh City Council (MBI).
In a joint statement released by MBI and Sunway University, the award recognizes excellence in urban development.
Ipoh Mayor, Dato’ Rumaizi Baharin, and iDEC CEO, Dr. Zulqarnain Mohamad, are expected to receive the award on behalf of the project in October during the ‘Beyond the 2030 Agenda’ event in Queretaro, Mexico.
In the statement, Rumaizi emphasized that the significance of this achievement lies not only in the award but also in the recognition of the collective commitment to transforming Ipoh into a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient city.
“It reflects the strong impact of implementing the Donut Economy model, which integrates economic, social, and environmental dimensions to achieve balanced and sustainable development pathways.
“Our work demonstrates how cities, when guided by innovative frameworks, can thrive within ecological limits while enhancing community well-being.
“We aim to continue aligning our development with ecological limits while strengthening the social fabric of the Ipoh community.
“We are committed to advancing these efforts, leveraging Donut Economy principles to create a greener and more inclusive future for Ipoh and beyond,” he said.
Rumaizi also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim; Perak Chief Minister Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohamad; and Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming for their valuable support and contributions.
Their commitment and dedication have played a crucial role in advancing the city’s initiatives and ensuring the success of these projects.
The statement further clarified that while MBI leads the project, managing the foundational preparations and setting the stage for the Ipoh Donut Economy initiatives, Sunway University has also played a key role as the primary knowledge partner.
SCPH Executive Director, Prof Tan Sri Dr. Jemilah Mahmood, stated that this achievement reflects Sunway University’s ongoing commitment to planetary health and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the university’s dedication to being a ‘Campus with Awareness,’ actively driving sustainable solutions and nurturing responsible global citizens.
In line with FLAGSHIP 15 of the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan, MBI reinforces its commitment to strengthening collaboration with stakeholders to build a resilient, healthy, and sustainable Ipoh.
Ipoh aims to be a pioneering example for other cities in Malaysia and ASEAN in adapting regenerative and sustainable urban development models.
