KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 — Kuala Lumpur has been recognised as a World Energy City by the World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP).

The recognition was bestowed upon Kuala Lumpur by WECP at its Annual General Meeting in Stavanger on last Saturday.

The WECP, formed in 1995, is a non-profit organisation of the world’s leading energy cities which are globally recognised as international energy capitals.

WECP President and Mayor of Norway’s city of Stavanger, Christine Sagen Helgo said in a statement today that she saw Kuala Lumpur, as an integral city in the Asia Pacific, contributing to the regional economy, while expected to play a major role in the continuous development of the energy sector.

Kuala Lumpur Mayor, Datuk Seri Ahmad Phesal Talib was present to receive the recognition.

Also present was the Executive Director of Malaysian Petroleum Resources Corporation (MPRC), Dr Shahreen Madros.

Ahmad Phesal said he looked forward to amplifying Kuala Lumpur’s contribution to the WECP.

“It is with great responsibility and pride that we embrace this important partnership,” he added.

Meanwhile, Shahreen said the partnership opens up opportunities for mutual development in a variety of strategic areas, particularly oil and gas (O&G), as it is central to Malaysia’s economy.

“In line with the government’s strategy to sustain, grow and diversify our energy capabilities, Kuala Lumpur as a partner city can leverage on WECP’s worldwide network of industry support services and resources.

‘This is one of the building blocks for Malaysia in positioning itself as a regional O&G hub,” he added. — Bernama