THE ‘Malaysia Happiness Survey’ conducted by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) from September to November 2021 put Penang as among the happiest states in Malaysia.
PLANMalaysia@Penang (Penang Town and Country Planning Department) deputy director Hassan Yaakob, said such recognition proves that Penang is on the right track to becoming a thriving as well as an inclusive community.
“It is also the best indicator for Penang, to take the steps to remain consistent with regard to urban development goals and to maintain a high livability index,” Hassan said during the World Town Planning Day celebration at Komtar Walk today.
Also present were state Local Government, Housing, Town and Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo, deputy State Secretary (Development) Datuk Zakuan Zakaria, Penang Island City Council mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang and Seberang Jaya City Council (MBSP) mayor Datuk Azhar Arshad.
According to DOSM’s website, the findings of the survey showed that the Malaysia Happiness Index (MHI) score in 2021 was at a happy level of 6.48 (out of a total score of 10).
It is learned that the highest index score recorded was the family component at 7.23, followed by the religion and spiritual component (7.21) and health (6.75).
Other components included the usage of time at a score of 6.72, social participation (6.46), housing and environment (6.39), working life (6.31), education (6.30), public safety (6.28), culture (6.20), emotional experience (6.15), communication facilities (6.14) and income (6.04).
The statement also said that Penang was among the happiest states with a score of 6.65.
Meanwhile, Jagdeep reaffirmed that the state government would carry out the urban regeneration programme to ensure that the people of Penang can own a house.
The theme for this year’s World Town Planning Day is ‘Liveable Malaysia: Transforming Our Cities For A Better Urban Future’.
At the event, three winners of the ‘Taman Free School Urban Regeneration Programme Masterplan’ competition were announced as well.
The first prize went to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM ), followed by Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Puncak Alam and Politeknik Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah, Jitra.
Apart from that, the ‘Tokoh Perancang Bandar Negeri Pulau Pinang’ award was awarded to Datuk Rakibah Abdul Latif.
The award presentation of ‘MURNInets 2.0’ to the relevant departments and agencies also took place during the ceremony.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis