International Activities

The Korea Research Institute for Local Administration (KRILA) announced its participation in the 8th MeTTA (Mega Think Tank Alliance) Forum, held from October 29 (Tuesday) to November 1 (Friday) in Putrajaya, Malaysia. Hosted by PLANMalaysia (Federal Government of Town and Country Planning, Ministry of Housing and Local Government Malaysia), the forum also included visits to Malacca and Kuala Lumpur.

Highlights of the Forum

KRILA’s delegation, led by Senior Research Fellow Choi In-Soo from the Decentralization Policy Research Division and Associate Research Fellow Lee Jae-Yong from the Local Administration Innovation Division, engaged in discussions to strengthen international cooperation and shared insights on urban development and governance.

Key activities included:

1. Institutional Visit and MOU Signing:
• Official visit to PLANMalaysia and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Malaysian Institute for Development Studies and the Busan Institute of Development Studies.
2. Membership Approval:
• KRILA was officially approved as a new member of MeTTA, marking a significant step in enhancing its global research collaboration network.
3. Presentations and Discussions:
• Under the theme “Urbanism Next 3R+Reimagine, Reinvent, Revitalise & Reconnect,” KRILA’s Associate Research Fellow Lee Jae-Yong presented on Strategies to Promote Local Governance.
• Nine innovative urban development cases were presented by member institutions.

Cultural and Policy Exploration

Participants explored UNESCO World Heritage City Malacca, including its traditional houses and preservation districts. In Kuala Lumpur, visits were made to the SMART Tunnel facility, Merdeka Square, the National Library, and the SDG Center, deepening understanding of Malaysia’s sustainable urban policies.

Key Outcomes

• Expanded Networks: Established collaborative networks with domestic and international research institutions and government agencies, laying the groundwork for continued research exchange.
• Trend Analysis: Gained insights into the latest trends in local governance and urban development in the Asia region.
• Data Acquisition: Secured up-to-date information and resources relevant to policy and research initiatives for local governments.
• Capacity Building: Enhanced global research capacity through regular participation in MeTTA forums and collaboration with member institutions.
• Policy Innovation: Identified leading-edge policy topics and facilitated the international dissemination of research outcomes.

Future Plans

KRILA plans to continue its active participation in MeTTA forums and collaborative activities with member institutions, focusing on strengthening global research capacity and enhancing its international reputation. This effort will contribute to sustainable development and innovative policy research.