While the deployment of smart city tools has grown, data fragmentation and siloed efforts are undermining national efficiency and increasing costs, says Gobind
Kuala Lumpur’s (KL) ambitions to become a model smart city are accelerating — but city and federal officials now face the challenge of ensuring fragmented digital infrastructure is integrated across agencies and states to realise the full potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in urban governance.
Read more: MY: KL’s smart city push highlights need for national-level AI integration
The future of urban development has moved beyond smart cities equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology. We are progressing towards circular ecosystems that regenerate rather than deplete. This bold shift is grounded in forward-looking frameworks such as the Johor Green Deal and Johor Smart City 2030.
These frameworks have provided the foundation for integrating sustainability, digitalisation and carbon reduction into township design. In Johor, this is our priority as we endeavour to become a regional leader in sustainable urban development.
Read more: MY: Building Johor's Tomorrow: Leading the Future of Smart Circular Cities
Malaysia is entering a defining chapter in its digital transformation. With billion-ringgit data centre investments from global technology players such as Google, Microsoft and Nvidia, and smart city developments underway in areas like Cyberjaya, i-City and Iskandar Malaysia, the foundations for a more connected and intelligent economy are steadily being laid.
As progress accelerates, the focus must now shift beyond investment announcements and pilot programmes. The question is no longer whether the country is ambitious, but whether its infrastructure can scale rapidly, sustainably and cohesively enough to translate vision into long-term value.
Read more: MY: Smart city goals need infrastructure to match
The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is driving the modernisation of Kuala Lumpur’s infrastructure and public services, boosting efficiency and liveability.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo observed firsthand the implementation of data-driven and AI-enabled smart city solutions, during a visit to the Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) KL Command & Control Centre (KLCCC) today.
Touching on Smart Nation 2030, he said it meant that Malaysia has to look at its current strengths and to look at the future.
Read more: MY: Kuala Lumpur on track to becoming AI-driven city
Higher ranking under national rating system will strengthen position as urban hub, says mayor
Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) may soon be the first local council in Malaysia to achieve a level three status under the national smart city rating system.
The rating system is part of the Malaysian Smart City Framework 2019-2025.
Read more: MY: Johor Baru on track to leading smart city status