Dr. Maimunah Mohd Sharif - Former Executive Director, UN-Habitat

About Dr. Maimunah Mohd Sharif

Dr. Maimunah Mohd Sharif is a distinguished Sustainability & Environment leader based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Maimunah Mohd Sharif is a Malaysian urban planner and governance leader who served as Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) from January 2018 to January 2024, making her the first Asian woman to hold that position. She previously served as Mayor of Penang Island (1 July 2017 – 19 January 2018) and was the first woman President of the Municipal Council of Seberang Perai (2011–2017). Her work focused on sustainable city planning, climate-resilient urban development, participatory governance, and inclusive housing strategies.

Sustainability & Environment Expert in Kuala Lumpur

As a leading Sustainability & Environment professional in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,Dr. Maimunah Mohd Sharif has made significant contributions to the field.

Achievements and Awards

• Executive Director UN-Habitat - 2018–2024: Served as Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme for six years, leading global urban sustainability efforts.
• Mayor of Penang Island - 2017–2018: Served as Mayor of Penang Island City Council, implementing sustainability-driven urban reforms.
• Malaysian Institute of Planners – Planner of the Year - 2014: Awarded Planner of the Year by the Malaysian Institute of Planners for contributions to urban planning and development.
• Global Human Settlements Outstanding Contribution Award - 2016: Received the Outstanding Contribution Award at Habitat III for urban planning leadership.
• Honorary Member Royal Town Planning Institute - 2024: Conferred honorary membership by the Royal Town Planning Institute for exceptional global planning contributions.

Professional Experience

• Executive Director at United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) (2018–2024): Led the UN agency focused on sustainable urbanization and inclusive development globally.
• Mayor at Penang Island City Council (2017–2018): Oversaw municipal governance, sustainability reforms, and participatory planning in Penang Island, Malaysia.
• President at Municipal Council of Seberang Perai (2011–2017): First woman to lead the council, advancing governance and urban planning practices.

Media Appearances

• UN-Habitat Leadership Profile - UN-Habitat, 2018

Connect with Dr. Maimunah Mohd Sharif