Celebrating a Decade of Impact: Temasek Foundation Leaders in Urban Governance Programme

Over the past decade, the collaboration between the CLC and Temasek Foundation (TF) has brought about transformative journeys in cities across Asia through the Temasek Foundation Leaders in Urban Governance Programme (TFLUGP).

In its tenure, TFLUGP brought together a total of 290 aspiring city leaders, representing 73 cities across 18 countries, to learn, share insights, and cultivate strategies to address the pressing urban challenges of their cities. The programme's inclusive nature, drawing individuals from various cultural and professional backgrounds, fostered a rich and collaborative learning environment. The hallmark of the programme was not confined to the training sessions; it extended across borders through a series of 18 follow-up in-city trips.

TFLUGP’s commitment to sustained progress maybe seen through significant urban governance and physical transformations in various cities, as follows:

Kuching North, the capital of Sarawak, Malaysia, implemented the "Cantik, Bersih dan Selamat" (CBS) plan, inspired by Singapore's ABC Waters master plan. Launched in 2013 and renewed in 2019, CBS integrates smart initiatives, promoting sustainable development and community engagement. Notably, collaboration with the private sector, such as the memorandum of understanding with Pestech International, is a prominent feature of the CBS, and showcases CBS's strategy to achieve its goal of making Kuching the cleanest, most beautiful, and safest city in Malaysia.

In Thimphu Thromde, Bhutan, the bustling Norzin Lam thoroughfare faced congestion challenges for years. The vision to pedestrianise Norzin Lam was initiated in 2000, with then-Chief Administrative Officer, Hasatabahadur Sangpang, leading the transformation after participating in TFLUGP 2016. CLC further supported the initiative by funding an advisory workshop in 2017, bringing in Singapore landscape companies. The endeavour aimed to rejuvenate the urban core and enhance the city's liveability.

Trenggalek City in Indonesia successfully tackled urban slum issues through the Kota Tanpa Kumuh (KOTAKU) initiative. The National Slum Upgrading Programme (NSUP) 2016-2020 aimed to upgrade all 0.699 km² of Trenggalek's slum areas by 2019. The regency government's comprehensive approach involved inter-agency collaboration and community engagement. By integrating plans with regional development strategies, Trenggalek achieved its goal of improving all its slums by 2019. Today, the city continues to strive for sustainability, with Regent Mochamad Nur Arifin envisioning Trenggalek as a "City in a forest" and implementing long-term strategies for economic development and job creation.

There are numerous other success stories and testimonials from programme alumni, highlighting personal and professional transformations. The real-world application of acquired knowledge and the positive changes witnessed in their respective cities stand as living proof of the programme's efficacy.

The fruitful 10-year partnership between CLC and TF, through the TFLUGP, stands testament to the power of collaboration, education, and shared vision. The achievements attained, the knowledge imparted, and the network cultivated have laid the groundwork for a brighter, more resilient urban future. As this remarkable partnership concludes, the legacy of the TFLUGP lives on through the empowered leaders, thriving cities, and the lasting impact on urban governance and integrated master planning.