Bhutan's Gelephu Mindfulness City: A New Dawn for Sustainable Development
October 3, 2024, 11:48 pm
In the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan is embarking on a transformative journey. The Kingdom has appointed a cadre of strategic leaders to spearhead the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at redefining urban living through mindfulness and sustainability. This ambitious project is not just about building a city; it’s about creating a model for the future—one that harmonizes economic growth with the environment and cultural values.
His Majesty the King of Bhutan has made a bold move by appointing Mun Leong Liew as the CEO of GMC. Liew is no stranger to large-scale projects. With a wealth of experience in urbanization and infrastructure, he has led significant developments across the globe. His leadership at CapitaLand and Changi Airport Group speaks volumes about his capability. Under his guidance, GMC is poised to become a beacon of mindful development, integrating cutting-edge infrastructure with Bhutanese principles.
The vision for GMC is grand. It aims to be a global economic hub that redefines the core principles of development. The city will not only serve as a center for commerce but will also embody the essence of Bhutanese culture and values. This blend of tradition and modernity is what sets GMC apart. It’s a city designed for the future, yet rooted in the past.
Liew’s mandate includes a crucial focus on capacity building. He understands that the future of GMC relies on nurturing local talent. By preparing Bhutanese professionals for leadership roles, he is ensuring that the city’s development is sustainable and self-sufficient. This is not just about foreign expertise; it’s about empowering the local workforce to take charge of their destiny.
Joining Liew on this journey is Joichi "Joi" Ito, who has been appointed as Chairman of the Gelephu Investment Development Corporation (GIDC). Ito’s background in technology and green energy positions him perfectly to drive investment in sustainable industries. His vision for GMC includes enhancing digital connectivity and fostering the growth of technology sectors powered by renewable energy. This focus on green energy is not just a trend; it’s a necessity for a city that aims to be a model of environmental responsibility.
The GIDC will play a pivotal role in attracting investments that align with GMC’s sustainable vision. Ito’s extensive network and experience in the tech sector will be invaluable. He understands the importance of harnessing technology to improve lives while minimizing environmental impact. This dual focus on innovation and sustainability is what will make GMC a trailblazer in urban development.
Another key player in this initiative is Yee Ean Pang, who brings a wealth of experience in infrastructure development and renewable energy investments. His expertise will guide GMC in aligning with sustainable investment strategies. Pang’s commitment to social sustainability ensures that the city will not only be economically viable but also socially responsible. This holistic approach is essential for creating a thriving community that benefits all its residents.
Seow Hiang Lee, former CEO of Changi Airport Group, adds another layer of expertise to the board. His insights into urban development and international connectivity will be crucial for GMC’s competitiveness as a regional hub. Lee’s experience in transforming Changi Airport into a global leader in air travel demonstrates his ability to elevate GMC to similar heights. His understanding of the interplay between government and private sectors will facilitate the necessary collaborations for success.
Education is another cornerstone of GMC’s development. Arun Kapur, who has a rich background in training and education systems, will focus on upskilling Bhutanese talent. His experience in leading prestigious educational institutions in India equips him to foster a culture of learning and innovation in GMC. By investing in education, GMC is laying the groundwork for a knowledgeable workforce that can adapt to the challenges of the future.
Lastly, Lauren Chung’s expertise in international relations and communications strategy will ensure that GMC’s vision is effectively communicated to global stakeholders. Her role will be pivotal in navigating the complexities of international partnerships and investments. In a world where communication is key, Chung’s insights will help GMC position itself as a leader in mindful development.
The opening session of the Bhutan Innovation Forum marked a significant milestone for GMC. With the presentation of the concept masterplan by Bjarke Ingels, the vision for this city is becoming clearer. The masterplan embodies the essence of what GMC aims to achieve—a harmonious blend of nature, technology, and community.
As Bhutan embarks on this visionary journey, it seeks like-minded professionals to join this pioneering initiative. The call for collaboration is clear. GMC is not just a project; it’s a movement towards a new era of growth and mindfulness. It’s about creating a city that respects the environment while fostering economic prosperity.
In conclusion, the Gelephu Mindfulness City is more than just an urban development project. It’s a testament to Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable growth and mindful living. With a team of visionary leaders at the helm, GMC is set to become a global model for economic and social development. As the world watches, Bhutan is poised to redefine what it means to build a city in harmony with the human spirit and the environment. The future is bright, and the journey has just begun.
His Majesty the King of Bhutan has made a bold move by appointing Mun Leong Liew as the CEO of GMC. Liew is no stranger to large-scale projects. With a wealth of experience in urbanization and infrastructure, he has led significant developments across the globe. His leadership at CapitaLand and Changi Airport Group speaks volumes about his capability. Under his guidance, GMC is poised to become a beacon of mindful development, integrating cutting-edge infrastructure with Bhutanese principles.
The vision for GMC is grand. It aims to be a global economic hub that redefines the core principles of development. The city will not only serve as a center for commerce but will also embody the essence of Bhutanese culture and values. This blend of tradition and modernity is what sets GMC apart. It’s a city designed for the future, yet rooted in the past.
Liew’s mandate includes a crucial focus on capacity building. He understands that the future of GMC relies on nurturing local talent. By preparing Bhutanese professionals for leadership roles, he is ensuring that the city’s development is sustainable and self-sufficient. This is not just about foreign expertise; it’s about empowering the local workforce to take charge of their destiny.
Joining Liew on this journey is Joichi "Joi" Ito, who has been appointed as Chairman of the Gelephu Investment Development Corporation (GIDC). Ito’s background in technology and green energy positions him perfectly to drive investment in sustainable industries. His vision for GMC includes enhancing digital connectivity and fostering the growth of technology sectors powered by renewable energy. This focus on green energy is not just a trend; it’s a necessity for a city that aims to be a model of environmental responsibility.
The GIDC will play a pivotal role in attracting investments that align with GMC’s sustainable vision. Ito’s extensive network and experience in the tech sector will be invaluable. He understands the importance of harnessing technology to improve lives while minimizing environmental impact. This dual focus on innovation and sustainability is what will make GMC a trailblazer in urban development.
Another key player in this initiative is Yee Ean Pang, who brings a wealth of experience in infrastructure development and renewable energy investments. His expertise will guide GMC in aligning with sustainable investment strategies. Pang’s commitment to social sustainability ensures that the city will not only be economically viable but also socially responsible. This holistic approach is essential for creating a thriving community that benefits all its residents.
Seow Hiang Lee, former CEO of Changi Airport Group, adds another layer of expertise to the board. His insights into urban development and international connectivity will be crucial for GMC’s competitiveness as a regional hub. Lee’s experience in transforming Changi Airport into a global leader in air travel demonstrates his ability to elevate GMC to similar heights. His understanding of the interplay between government and private sectors will facilitate the necessary collaborations for success.
Education is another cornerstone of GMC’s development. Arun Kapur, who has a rich background in training and education systems, will focus on upskilling Bhutanese talent. His experience in leading prestigious educational institutions in India equips him to foster a culture of learning and innovation in GMC. By investing in education, GMC is laying the groundwork for a knowledgeable workforce that can adapt to the challenges of the future.
Lastly, Lauren Chung’s expertise in international relations and communications strategy will ensure that GMC’s vision is effectively communicated to global stakeholders. Her role will be pivotal in navigating the complexities of international partnerships and investments. In a world where communication is key, Chung’s insights will help GMC position itself as a leader in mindful development.
The opening session of the Bhutan Innovation Forum marked a significant milestone for GMC. With the presentation of the concept masterplan by Bjarke Ingels, the vision for this city is becoming clearer. The masterplan embodies the essence of what GMC aims to achieve—a harmonious blend of nature, technology, and community.
As Bhutan embarks on this visionary journey, it seeks like-minded professionals to join this pioneering initiative. The call for collaboration is clear. GMC is not just a project; it’s a movement towards a new era of growth and mindfulness. It’s about creating a city that respects the environment while fostering economic prosperity.
In conclusion, the Gelephu Mindfulness City is more than just an urban development project. It’s a testament to Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable growth and mindful living. With a team of visionary leaders at the helm, GMC is set to become a global model for economic and social development. As the world watches, Bhutan is poised to redefine what it means to build a city in harmony with the human spirit and the environment. The future is bright, and the journey has just begun.