DATUK Seri Maimunah Sharif (picture) has been appointed as the first female mayor of Kuala Lumpur effective tomorrow.

Federal territories minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said in a statement that Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim had consented to Maimunah’s appointment under subsection 4(2) of the Federal Capital Act 1960.

“I believe that with this appointment, Maimunah will continue to bring her experience and contributions to lead City Hall (DBKL) with integrity, ensuring the sustainability of development, excellence and ongoing prosperity towards a progressive and prosperous Kuala Lumpur,” she said in a statement today.

Maimunah, who is a former Penang Island mayor and Seberang Perai city council president, will be replacing Datuk Seri Kamarulzaman Salleh, whose term ends today.

Maimunah has 39 years’ experience in urban planning and urban regeneration, having played a key role in UN-Habitat’s leadership in sustainable urban development.

The 63-year-old holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Urban Planning from the University of Wales and Universiti Sains Malaysia, respectively.

Maimunah has also been appointed as co-chair of the secretary-general’s task force on future cities and co-chair of the Local 2030 Coalition and currently serves as an adviser to the International Council for Local Environmental Initiative.

She also has won several accolades, including being recognised as Malaysia’s Urban Planner of the Year by the housing and local government ministry. — TMR