MBKS highlights health-first urban governance at Global Healthy Cities Conference in Seoul

Wee (fifth right) together with the MBKS team at the the 10th Global Conference of the Alliance for Healthy Cities (AFHC) in Seoul, South Korea on Sept 26, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 26: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) showcased its commitment to health governance, environmental sustainability, and creating healthier urban spaces during the 10th Global Conference of the Alliance for Healthy Cities (AFHC) in Seoul, South Korea.

As a distinguished panelist in the Special Session on Urban Governance for Health and Well-being, MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng emphasised the importance of integrating health priorities into urban governance strategies, addressing public health, community engagement, and environmental sustainability.

“It is a privilege to participate in this critical session on urban governance. The conference theme, ‘Smarter and Healthier City for a Better Future,’ provides an opportunity to explore new strategies that enhance health governance, promote sustainability, and create healthier urban environments,” he said in a press release today.

Wee highlighted that MBKS’ participation also fosters the exchange of best practices and innovations in urban health with other global cities.

The event brought together city leaders, health experts, and policymakers from around the world to share knowledge and strategies for promoting healthier urban living environments.

MBKS also presented two key papers at the conference namely the Child-Friendly City Initiative and the No Plastic Straw Strategy, which promotes edible alternatives.

“These initiatives reflect Kuching South’s ongoing efforts to create a sustainable, inclusive city for all,” he added.

Wee emphasised that these initiatives underscore the Council’s proactive approach to promoting health, sustainability, and children’s welfare as part of Kuching South’s broader commitment to the Alliance for Healthy Cities framework.

MBKS has been an active participant in AFHC conferences since joining the Healthy Cities initiative, consistently demonstrating its dedication to building a thriving, resilient community.

Kuching also proudly serves as a member of the AFHC steering committee, contributing to the global discourse on urban health governance. — DayakDaily