In a bold move to redefine its economic landscape, Ipoh, the capital of Malaysia’s Perak state, is embracing ‘doughnut economics’ to spearhead urban regeneration. This innovative model, by Oxford economist Kate Raworth, aims to balance growth with equity and sustainability.
Historically, Ipoh thrived as a tin mining hub in the 19th century. However, by the 1990s, the industry’s decline caused economic downturns and a youth exodus to cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
City officials, with the support of Perak’s ruler, Sultan Nazrin Shah, are using regenerative economic models to revitalize Ipoh.
Doughnut economics critiques the GDP-focused approach. It calls for a system that ensures social well-being within ecological limits. The model envisions an economy where no one falls short on life’s essentials (represented by the doughnut’s inner ring), while collectively we do not overshoot our ecological ceilings (the outer ring).
Ipoh’s commitment to this model is evident through several initiatives:
- Urban Ecotourism: The city wants to be Malaysia’s top urban ecotourism hub. It will focus on preserving nature and the community’s well-being. It aims to attract local and international tourists, while protecting the environment.
- Waste Management: Significant strides have been made in reducing illegal garbage hotspots from 1,672 to 120 locations. The distribution of over 84,000 garbage bins across 355 residential areas and the establishment of automated drive-thru recycling centres, such as ‘Trash For Cash’, underscore the city’s commitment to sustainability.
- Educational Outreach: The Ipoh City Council values early education. It has introduced doughnut economics to primary school students. It started with Sekolah Kebangsaan Marian Convent. This initiative aims to cultivate a generation that values sustainable development.
These efforts have garnered international recognition. In September 2024, UN-Habitat praised Ipoh’s Doughnut Economy initiative. It was for its innovative approach to sustainable urban development.
Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin, a key proponent of this change, said, “Our work shows how cities can thrive within nature’s limits. They can do this while improving their communities’ well-being, if guided by innovative frameworks.””
The city’s roadmap, outlined in the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan, envisions Ipoh as a fully realised Doughnut Economy City by 2027. This plan includes 15 flagship programmes designed to harmonise economic, social, political, and environmental aspects of development.
Ipoh’s use of doughnut economics makes it a Southeast Asia pioneer. It could serve as a model for other cities seeking sustainable, inclusive growth. By using this holistic framework, Ipoh is tackling its economic issues. It is also setting a precedent for future urban regeneration efforts.
As the city works to meet its 2027 goal, it will need help. Local authorities, schools, and the community must collaborate. Their efforts will create a balanced, sustainable urban ecosystem.
