From Johor Bahru to Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City, urban development is booming to meet the needs of growing populations and economies. But behind the glass towers and megaprojects lies a critical question: Can growth be achieved without sacrificing the environment? This blog explores how ASEAN cities are balancing rapid urbanisation with environmental sustainability, highlighting both the challenges and promising case studies.
Why Urban Growth Is Accelerating in ASEAN
ASEAN nations are among the fastest urbanising in the world. Fueled by:
- Rural-to-urban migration,
- Foreign direct investment, and
- Surging demand for housing and infrastructure.
Cities like Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Phnom Penh are witnessing unprecedented real estate development. Urban expansion is seen as a driver of:
- Employment,
- Capital formation,
- Economic modernisation.
However, this comes at a steep ecological cost:
- Deforestation,
- Urban heat island effects,
- Water resource stress.
- Rising greenhouse gas emissions.
Without sustainable planning, this growth could undermine long-term environmental and social resilience.
Environmental Impacts of Urbanization in Key ASEAN Cities
Jakarta, Indonesia: Sinking Under Rapid Growth
Jakarta faces severe land subsidence, largely due to excessive groundwater extraction and unregulated real estate expansion. Combined with poor drainage, diminishing green spaces, rising sea levels, the city now experiences frequent and devastating floods. Entire neighborhoods are often submerged during the monsoon season, disrupting commerce and displacing thousands.
Manila, Philippines: Mangroves Under Threat
The expansion of Manila’s real estate sector has led to the destruction of coastal mangroves, the critical natural buffers against typhoons and storm surges. These ecosystems also support marine biodiversity and serve as nurseries for fisheries, a vital source of livelihood for many coastal communities.
Bangkok, Thailand: Urban Heat and Water Stress
Rapid growth in Bangkok has increased impervious surfaces, contributing to heat island effects and flash flooding. Limited green cover and over-reliance on concrete-based infrastructure exacerbate water runoff and strain drainage systems.
Sustainable Urbanisation: Promising Case Studies Across ASEAN
Singapore: A Global Leader in Green Urbanism
Singapore’s “City in Nature” vision exemplifies what’s possible when ecology and development go hand-in-hand. Key initiatives include:
- Skyrise Greenery Programme (green roofs and vertical gardens),
- Eco-towns like Punggol, with solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and smart waste systems,
- Extensive green connectors, parks, and biodiversity corridors.
Singapore’s model proves that sustainability can be economically viable and scalable.
Cagayan de Oro, Philippines: Passive Design in Action
Primavera Residences showcase passive cooling, solar energy utilisation, and inner courtyards that reduce air-conditioning needs. The project has reported over 30% energy savings, making it a benchmark for tropical green architecture.
Penang, Malaysia: The BiodiverCity Vision
The BiodiverCity project aims to develop reclaimed land into a sustainable urban area prioritising :
– Mixed-use spaces,
– Environmental preservation,
– Inclusive community design.
This project aligns closely with nature-based solutions, integrating mangrove regeneration and eco-corridors into urban design.
Sulawesi City, Indonesia: Climate Resilience Through Innovation
In collaboration with UN-Habitat and the ASEAN Secretariat, Sulawesi City has launched an advanced disaster warning system. This initiative enhances flood and earthquake preparedness and focuses on protecting vulnerable populations while integrating community outreach and education programmes.
Recommendations for Sustainable Real Estate Growth
1. Strengthen Environmental Policy and Regulation
While most ASEAN countries require Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), enforcement is often inconsistent. Cities must:
- Standardise and strengthen EIA processes,
- Ensure public transparency and third-party audits,
- Link permits to verified sustainability benchmarks.
2. Invest in Green Infrastructure
Urban ecosystems need physical infrastructure to support resilience. Key investments include:
- Efficient public transport (BRT, electric rail),
- Green-certified buildings,
- Urban wetlands and bioswales,
- Circular waste and water systems.
These systems enhance both liveability and climate resilience.
3. Leverage ASEAN’s Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy (ASUS)
The ASUS framework offers a roadmap for cities to:
- Assess sustainability gaps,
- Align with climate goals,
- Foster innovation and inclusiveness.
Cities like Jakarta and Ho Chi Minh can use ASUS to inform zoning reforms, resilience planning, and low-carbon growth models.
4. Engage Communities in Urban Planning
Urban sustainability efforts thrive with bottom-up participation. Cities should:
- Hold regular consultations with local residents and businesses,
- Partner with NGOs for monitoring and outreach,
- Use participatory design methods (e.g., workshops, walkability audits).
Urbanisation doesn’t have to come at the environment’s expense. ASEAN cities have the tools, models, and frameworks to build resilient, inclusive, and green urban landscapes. Through strong policy, strategic investments, and empowered communities, the region can lead a new kind of development, one where cities grow with nature, not against it.
