Page 23 - Asia Speaks

9) URBAN RESILIENCE by Ivan Ong Hong Bing
I n my own understanding, urban resilience focused on climate change, natural disasters, and
also terrorism. It is due to the fact that these three issues are the key issues in this modern era. Urban resilience has basically been defined as the measurable ability of any urban system with its inhabitants to withstand through all difficulties and challenges. We are moving into a resilient city and society. It will be better positioned to protect and enhance people’s lives, secure development gains, drive positive change and also foster an invertible environment.
Recently, there has been increasing attention to the capability to adapt to changing conditions. It is very crucial and important for the public to aware and understands on the concept of urban resilience. Urban planning is one of the ways to improve the life of people. For example, building resilience in cities and disaster risk management. The public should be aware of
the disaster risk in urban areas. The local and federal government should be responsible for having an efficient urban planning blueprint. Disaster risk reduction and long- term sustainable development are important for the community and country. There are many aspects to achieve urban resilience for instance, sustainable economy, reliable mobility and communications, diverse livelihoods, employment and more.
I do think that with the youth help , community development can be more focused. I am a youth advocate for community development. I am very concerned about community development in my country. I have a strong sense of responsibility to the movement for community development and urban resilience. I am involved in the community volunteering program for the last three years. I do hope that UN Sustainable Development Goal 11, make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable can be achieved
by 2030. It is very important that having a safe, inclusive, resilient and sustainable city. Thus, urban resilience is one of the goals in my life in which to create a better community and society.
In Malaysia, there is a lack of awareness of urban resilience among society. The public, especially the youth are not aware of the importance of urban resilience. I do feel that I have the responsibility to spread among society. Urban resilience should be one of the key aspects and should be the focus of the local government, private entities and also the NGO.
Development is important for our community and society. In fact, efficient urban planning should be the key focus for community development. In sum, urban resilience should be the focal point of the public. Every individual should be ready to commit and ready to create a safe, inclusive, resilient and sustainable city.
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