IPOH DOUGHNUT FESTIVAL 2025: UNITING THE COMMUNITY TOWARDS A REGENERATIVE CITY

IPOH, 27 JULY 2025 – The atmosphere at Dataran Ipoh this morning was enlivened by the presence of thousands of city residents in conjunction with the Ipoh Doughnut Festival 2025, the event highlight of the Ipoh Low Carbon Day celebration organised by the Ipoh City Council (MBI) in collaboration with the Sunway Centre for Planetary Health (SCPH).

With the theme “Regenerative Communities, Sustainable City”, the festival, held from 7.00 am to 10.00 am this morning, highlighted the concept of Doughnut Economics, an urban development framework that balances basic human needs with Earth’s ecological limits. This approach is at the core of Ipoh’s aspiration to become a Regenerative City by 2027.

Starting as Ipoh Car Free Day on 18 October 2015, this programme has grown into Ipoh Low Carbon Day with over 80 editions and the participation of more than 200 strategic partners. This edition stands out as a platform for collective action towards a low-carbon lifestyle change and climate awareness.

The event was highlighted by the introduction of three themed zones that inclusively incorporate the values of the Doughnut Economics, namely:

🔵 Regeneration Zone

Exhibition on the transformation of Tasik Cermin from a former quarry site into an ecotourism destination.

Preliminary presentation of the study on Ipoh’s limestone formations as natural carbon sinks.

🟢 Planetary Health Zone

Display of the Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) model by MERCY Malaysia.

Interactive sessions on climate adaptation and public health.

🟠 Community Empowerment Zone

Cultural performances of Chinese drums, Indian dance and Malay silat.

There was also The Doughnut Treasure Hunt, an interactive exploration game based on the Donut Economy principles. It combined mental challenges, green learning and physical activities — making it a fun climate education platform for all ages. Winners stood a chance to take home cash prizes and exclusive items.

The festival also highlighted sustainability initiatives through a used cooking oil collection campaign by Green Energy Asia (GEA), which will be processed into biodiesel — a significant step in reducing carbon footprint and nurturing a recycling culture in the local community.

This morning's event was officiated by Ipoh Mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah and Prof. Tan Sri Dr. Jemilah Mahmood, Executive Director of SCPH. Also present were SCPH Collaboration, Communication & Project Management Department Head Mohamad Hafizan Kamarulzaman, UPEN Perak Assistant Director Shahrizul Radzi Maarof, and MBI Councillors and Department Heads.

Through this festival, MBI reaffirms its commitment to making Ipoh a Regenerative City, a city that is not only sustainable but also capable of renewing its ecosystem and empowering the community. This effort aligns with the national goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

This programme demonstrates that the shift towards a sustainable future relies not only on policies and technology but starts with awareness, action and active participation from the entire community.

Ipoh is not just planning for its future — Ipoh is building it, together with its citizens.