Vibrant metropolis: Istanbul and the influence of effective leadership - Shahridan Faiez (Revised)
In the heart of Turkey, Istanbul, a city with a rich history and unique geography, has undergone a remarkable transformation. This metamorphosis, which began in the late 1990s, has seen Istanbul evolve from a tired and decrepit metropolis into a vibrant, clean, and welcoming city.
At the helm of this transformation was the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, which has played a significant role in Istanbul's renaissance. The city's leadership, under the guidance of Mayor Kadir TopbaΕ, prioritised the needs of the people over private profit, turning historic buildings and prime real estate into spaces that serve the community.
One such example is the municipal restaurant on Chamlija Hill, nestled within a lush public park. This establishment serves delicious Ottoman cuisine at prices that are affordable for families and school groups, attracting both residents and visitors. The area is also home to small businesses that have flourished in these revitalised neighbourhoods.
Istanbul's public transport network has also been transformative. Subway lines that tunnel beneath the Bosphorus make commuting easier and more efficient, connecting different parts of the city.
The Yedikule Fortress, once associated with crime, drugs, and marginalization, was not evicted but was instead worked with by the city government. Today, it stands as a beautiful public park, a testament to the city's commitment to community over neglect.
The city's streets are now filled with the laughter of children playing in well-maintained parks and recreation grounds, a stark contrast to the past when they were working on the streets.
Istanbul's transformation is not just about physical changes. The city has also adopted a broader ethos of caring for all its inhabitants, as evidenced by the numerous food, water, and shelter stations for stray cats and dogs.
Across the city, government-owned bookshops, cafes, and craft shops offer high-quality goods without the inflated prices typical of tourist economies, making them accessible to the ordinary residents.
In 2023, Istanbul welcomed over 17 million tourists, a testament to the city's appeal. The city's GDP, estimated at a cool US$340 billion (RM1,436 billion), reflects its economic growth.
The story of Istanbul serves as a reminder that cities are not doomed to decline. With leadership that values people over profits and community over neglect, urban life can be dignified, joyful, and sustainable.
Dr Shahridan Faiez, a geographer and a trustee of Citizens International, echoes this sentiment. He is attached to Think City, Malaysia's urban transformation incubator of ideas and initiatives, and has experience working with cities across more than 20 countries. He believes that with the right vision and leadership, cities can be transformed for the better.
Neighbourhoods like Uskudar, Maltepe, Galata waterfront, and Balat have been revitalised and infused with new energy. The Nevmekan centres, previously stately homes overlooking the Bosphorus, have been converted into affordable co-working, studying, and family spaces. More than 10 of these centres now dot the city, welcoming ordinary residents to enjoy what might otherwise have been exclusive to the wealthy few.
Istanbul, with its architectural splendour, bustling bazaars, majestic mosques, and unique geography straddling Europe and Asia, continues to be a city worth visiting and living in. Its transformation serves as a beacon of hope for cities around the world, proving that urban life can be revitalised and rejuvenated when the focus is on the people.
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