Trailblazing Maimunah inspires as KL's first female mayor

SHAH ALAM - Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif has made history as the first female mayor of Kuala Lumpur, officially taking on the role on August 15.

Growing up in a rural area with parents who were rubber tappers, the town planner's humble beginnings have deeply influenced her approach to urban development, prioritising people, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Her appointment has been widely praised, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim leading the accolades, expressing confidence in her ability to lead the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).

Maimunah brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having previously served as the Mayor of Penang Island City Council and as the Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Nairobi, Kenya.

Notably, she was the first Asian woman to hold that prestigious position at UN-Habitat, where she worked for six years.

Anwar highlighted her 39 years of experience in urban planning and community development, both in Malaysia and internationally, as key qualifications for her new role.

Throughout her distinguished career, Maimunah has received numerous accolades, including being named a Malaysian Town Planner Figure by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, an Honorary Member of the Royal Town Planner's Institute in the United Kingdom, an Honorary Fellow of the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), and an Ambassador for Sustainable Urbanisation in Commonwealth countries appointed by King Charles III.

She has also held leadership positions as President of the Seberang Perai Municipal Council and President of the Malaysian Association of Local Authorities (MALA).

Anwar expressed his hope that Maimunah's vast experience will be instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for Kuala Lumpur's residents and elevating the city's global standing.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), Dr Zaliha Mustafa, acknowledged Maimunah's previous roles, including as Co-Chair of the Secretary-General's Task Force on Future Cities and Co-Chair of the 2030 Coalition of Local Governments.

She is also an advisor to the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI).

Meanwhile, former Kuala Lumpur lawmaker and Alliance for a Safe Community Chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye also praised Maimunah's appointment, noting its significance as the first female mayor in Kuala Lumpur.

He highlighted her international experience and called for her to focus on key issues, including urban planning, environmental preservation, quality of life, law enforcement, infrastructure, and social challenges.

"I welcome and congratulate Datuk Seri Maimunah on her appointment.

"I wish her the best in her duties, and may our nation's capital become a happier place under her leadership," said Lee.