Sustainable Development and the Role of Local Governance: Experience from Malaysian Model Regions
Ashiru Bello, Kamariah Dola

Abstract
In this article, conceptual issues regarding local governance and its utility in pursuing sustainable development goals have been discussed. Drawing from some good practice examples globally, and the existing situation in some East Asian countries, we concluded by examining the Malaysian situation of local governance in the midst of quest for sustainable development. Learning from the two models for sustainable development in Malaysia (Putrajaya and Iskandar), we contend that in spite of the administrative limitations associated with local governance in Malaysia (for example, local political actors being appointed by the ruling party), local governance institutions can still achieve a lot with regard to the attainment of sustainable development targets. This is supported by the business as usual emission scenarios based on current practices, particularly in Putrajaya. Much is however needed in improving the local administrative capacities, as the relative progress is invisible at the national scale.

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