‘Efforts to combine state initiatives vital for realising AI Nation vision’

Several major cities in Malaysia have already implemented artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation initiatives

Discussions are underway about creating sub-smart cities within existing urban centres, with Kota Madani – a new township in the administrative capital Putrajaya – a prime example.

However, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said that all these initiatives must be combined at the Federal level.

Speaking to reporters after launching the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025 this morning, Gobind said: “The key aspect of this Expo is the smart city element, which forms part of the AI Nation initiative.

“Several cities in Malaysia started smart city initiatives over the past few years. I visited Penang, and it has a command centre. It’s the same with Perak, Selangor, Melaka, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak.

“The problem is that these initiatives are in existence but operate in silos. To achieve the AI Nation vision, we need to combine these initiatives at the Federal level.”

He added combining such efforts would involve data sharing, allowing the Federal government to make better decisions for the wellbeing of the people.

Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who officiated the event, said a city must be built for the people and serve its purpose.

“We must be proud to have solutions that reflect our unique needs and values,” he said.

Gobind said the move to transform cities is part of Southeast Asia’s ongoing efforts to address poverty and improve the quality of life. He said a smart city must be both culturally vibrant and technologically savvy.

“From leveraging AI capabilities in energy, water, waste management to strengthening our national resilience with technology empowered disaster response, the Smart City enhances cost-efficiency, reduces our environmental footprint, and strengthens our cities’ preparedness for future challenges,” added Anwar.