A large-scale investment in artificial intelligence and robotics is set to accelerate the development of smart city technologies in Malaysia, reflecting broader regional efforts to integrate automation, digital infrastructure and human-centric services into urban environments.
It focuses on deploying robotics-as-a-service platforms and AI-driven systems to support smart living, city operations, seamless digital experiences and innovative urban services within a purpose-built urban development.
Read more: Malaysia Advances Smart Cities with AI and Robotics Integration
As autonomous vehicles (AVs) pick up steam overseas with players like Waymo, Uber and Baidu deploying their fleets on public roads, Malaysians have already had the chance to ride aboard driverless electric buses being tested back home.
Some might even describe Malaysia as being ahead of the curve, due in part to local start-up eMooVit Technology – the autonomous driving company behind last year’s public AV bus trials in Putrajaya.
Read more: The role of AI and 5G in powering Malaysia's autonomous buses
Summary:
- JB achieved "leading smart city" status with its integrated operations control centre to monitor traffic, detect potholes, and bust crime via CCTV cameras placed around the city.
- Residents can access data on traffic, parking, floods and public toilet cleanliness through mobile apps, but awareness and usage remain low.
- Analysts say technology alone can't solve JB's congestion, pollution, and infrastructure issues, highlighting the need for better enforcement.
In a former multipurpose hall atop the Johor Bahru City Council building, a 12m screen displays live feeds from 555 CCTV cameras monitoring every corner of Malaysia’s southern capital.
I-Berhad is stepping up the implementation of Robotics-as-a-Service (RAAS) across its property portfolio with an investment of RM1 billion, positioning artificial intelligence (AI)-based automation as a key pillar in property management, hospitality, lifestyle and asset operations as early as next year.
I-Berhad chairman Tan Sri Lim Kim Hong said the initiative is expected to place the company and i-City at the forefront as pioneers of smart city development in Malaysia through comprehensive integration of intelligent technology using advanced task execution systems and equipment.
- USD 8.43 billion committed investments in data centres
- Expected GDV of USD 6.6 billion over a 20-year horizon
JLand Group (JLG), the real estate and infrastructure arm of Johor Corporation (JCorp) unveiled Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC) – a 7,290-acre integrated development township in Sedenak that is envisioned to become Asia’s sandbox for innovation – a live environment where industry, government and innovators can, over time, pilot new solutions in real operating conditions, then refine and scale them across the region.
Read more: MY: Ibrahim Technopolis – Innovation Sandbox Within a Smart-City