ISTANBUL, Turkiye: Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) made history by winning two awards at the International Awards for Liveable Communities 2025 (LivCom) held here from November 18 to 21.
In the global competition, DBKU clinched the Silver Award under the ‘Whole City’ Category E, which recognises major cities with comprehensive and strategic urban planning.
The recognition was awarded based on DBKU’s achievements in implementing sustainable environmental management, inclusive community engagement, and efforts to preserve arts, culture and heritage in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
DBKU also took home the Bronze Award in the Technology Solutions category through its innovative Darulhana Musical Fountain project, recognised as a creative and high-impact urban development initiative.
The double success once again positions DBKU among top-performing local authorities on par with international cities.
Representing DBKU to receive the awards was its mayor, Datuk Hilmy Othman.
This year’s LivCom edition saw intense competition, with 281 entries from 52 countries, including Italy, China, South Korea, Australia, Kenya and France.
DBKU was among 30 cities shortlisted for the finals.
Established in 1997, LivCom is a prestigious international award recognised by UN-linked agencies as a key platform for assessing best practices in environmental management and local development.
DBKU’s latest accomplishments have also paved the way for new opportunities, with the UN panel selecting the city hall to participate in the ‘World Healthy and Positive Ageing City’ initiative next year.
Adding to the achievement, DBKU has been named one of five pioneering cities worldwide for the ‘Pilot City of World Healthy & Positive Ageing City Project 2025–2027’.
The pilot project is a collaboration between the International Expert Committee of Active Ageing and the International Institute on Ageing (INIA) United Nations-Malta, focusing on developing age-friendly cities that support healthy and positive ageing.
Over the next three years, DBKU will receive expert guidance and technical support to strengthen its demonstration model for active-ageing urban development.
