KUALA LUMPUR: The Green Cities Investment Forum 2024 (GCIF24) took place from November 26-27 at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, marking a transformative step toward sustainable urban development. Co-organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Centre for IMT-GT Subregional Cooperation (CIMT), ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, and the IMT-GT Joint Business Council, and supported by the Ministry of Economy Malaysia, the GCIF24 introduces the Green City Action Plan (GCAP) as a forward-thinking framework for achieving sustainability.
Through collaboration with private enterprises, international organizations, financial institutions, and government-linked companies (GLCs), GCAP embodies innovation, partnership, and measurable outcomes, providing a comprehensive approach to urban challenges.
GCAP: A Blueprint for Urban Sustainability
GCAP is designed to help cities transition toward sustainability by aligning development with global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. It focuses on collaboration among cities, businesses, and communities to address pressing environmental challenges while creating resilient urban spaces.
Key benefits of GCAP include:
- Capacity Building: Providing skills and knowledge for local authorities and businesses to implement sustainable initiatives.
- Innovative Financial Models: Offering solutions to lower investment barriers and channel resources toward climate-resilient projects.
- Comprehensive Strategies: Tailoring action plans that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.
A Forum for Private Sector Engagement
GCIF24 emphasizes the pivotal role of the private sector in sustainable urban transformation. The event offers a platform for businesses to explore investment-ready projects, network with policymakers, and shape resilient, green cities.
Through GCAP, private enterprises can contribute to green initiatives, expand markets, and drive meaningful environmental impact.
Key Highlights of GCIF24
Participants will gain valuable insights and opportunities through:
- Showcase Successful GCAP Implementation: Learn from cities that have achieved remarkable economic benefits and operational efficiencies through their Green City Action Plans (GCAPs). These best practices will inspire and guide other cities in their sustainable development journeys.
- Facilitate Strategic Collaborations: Bring together city stakeholders, government policymakers, private organizations, educational institutions, and financial institutions to explore innovative financing models and investment opportunities for shortlisted GCAP projects.
- Share Experiences on Green and Smart Cities: Engage in dynamic discussions highlighting real-world examples of green and smart city initiatives, addressing successes, challenges, and opportunities for future growth.
What to Expect at GCIF24
GCIF24 features dynamic sessions such as:
- Plenary Discussions: Insights into the economic and environmental benefits of GCAPs from leading cities.
- Networking Opportunities: Fostering connections among governments, businesses, and financial institutions.
- Project Showcases: Highlighting investable initiatives addressing climate challenges.
A Step Toward the Future
GCIF24 is not just an event—it’s a pivotal moment in the region’s journey toward a sustainable urban future. By championing the Green City Action Plan, the forum aims to catalyse action, encourage innovation, and foster collaboration across sectors.
The outcomes of GCIF24 will set the stage for the upcoming Green Cities Investment Summit 2025, where cities will continue to build on the momentum generated by this forum.
