Prof. Ahmad Shukri Mustapa Kamal, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) said that to make sure it is successful and to achieve the objective, the ‘green’ concept itself has to be understood thoroughly. This is because it encompasses a very wide aspect and is not only limited to internal construction and technology only.
"It is closely related to various aspects of life such as a community’s way of life and the principles that are used when we are faced with issues like energy needs, safeguarding our forests, planting trees in the city as well as health care, conservation and others."
"In order to ensure its effectiveness, all parties should understand the true meaning of ‘green’ and make it a part of our life principals. This should be applied in developmental activities we undertake and I’m sure it will be beneficial and boost the quality of life in any society," he said, while launching the International Conference on Built Environment in Developing Countries at Hotel Vistana on December the 1st.
A total of 150 participants from over 20 countries attended the conference.
In his speech, he urged all academicians and professionals involved in the built environment industry to work closely with each other and to be more active in finding practical solutions for various issues that are closely related to the quality of life in society.
Prof. Mahyuddin Ramli, Dean of the School of Housing, Building and Planning USM also said that the paradigm shift with regard to national development in the context of permanent built structures is important so as to minimize problems that in the future.
Poorly planned development can lead to various problems. The problem of flash-floods in the city for instance is due to rapid and uncontrolled development as well as poor planning, particularly that of drainage systems.
"We also have to take into consideration the issue of heritage, which if neglected, will result in the loss of invaluable historical evidence. The same applies to the specific needs of certain groups of people such as old folks, children and those with special needs," he said.
He went on to say that the conference would hold discussions on four key dimensions in built environment - Architecture and City Design, Construction and Project Management, Building Engineering and Technology as well as Town Planning and Tourism.
