Kuala Lumpur: Sandakan was the sole representative from Sabah to present at the recent Asean Sustainable Urbanisation Forum (ASUF), held in conjunction with the Asean Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF) and the 2025 Meeting of Governors and Mayors of Asean Capitals (MGMAC), from Aug 10 to 15 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).
Mohd Kazroy Nizam Sani, Head of the Urban Planning & Architecture Department at the Sandakan Municipal Council, delivered an engaging presentation titled “Localising Global Goals Through Sandakan Sustainable Community Agenda 2023–2027” on the SDG Stage during the multi-day event.
He highlighted how the Council overcame initial resistance to rejuvenate an alleyway, now transformed into ‘Creative Lane Sandakan’, a vibrant tourist attraction and part of the Heritage Walk Trail, featuring artistic murals on building walls.
Mohd Kazroy also showcased community tourism initiatives involving local villages, citing Kampung Bambangan as a model of success, and commended Council President Walter Joseph Kinson for prioritising trading slots for youth entrepreneurs.
He acknowledged vandalism issues at certain sites such as Taman Memorial Tun Abdul Razak, but noted that public cooperation has helped keep the situation under control.
Sandakan’s participation reflects its growing role as a forward-thinking urban centre ahead of its anticipated elevation to city status.
