MDEC to launch digital city initiative to drive technological adoption and boost smart city agenda

​​

• "They can also be an innovation hub to attract researchers and entrepreneurs, leading to the development of new technologies, products and services, thus driving economic growth,” said Ng.

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 24): The Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) will launch a digital city initiative to accelerate digital adoption in city services and promote the smart city agenda.

“The demand for a sustainable, resilient and liveable urban environment has never been more pressing. A revolutionary shift in how we design and manage urban spaces is required,” said MDEC vice president (digital cities and health) Karl Ng during his presentation at the Smart Cities Asia conference held at Connexion@Nexus, Bangsar South on Tuesday.

To be launched at a later date, he explained that the focus of the initiative will be on the adoption and enhancement of digital services for the public as well as leveraging on data to obtain valuable insights for optimising public services.

“Digital cities can provide a much-needed economic boost by attracting investments, offering a compelling environment for businesses and creating jobs for the people. They can also be an innovation hub to attract researchers and entrepreneurs, leading to the development of new technologies, products and services, thus driving economic growth,” said Ng.

He added that MDEC will be working closely with the Digital Ministry and the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) on this digital city initiative.  

Meanwhile, in his welcome address at the conference, Smart Cities Asia organising chairman and Knowledge Group of Companies managing director Selva Nagappan said cities are evolving into a dynamic ecosystem powered by technology.

“The future of urban living lies in the realm of smart cities,” said Selva.

Echoing similar sentiments, KPKT deputy secretary-general (planning and sustainable environment) Datuk Saidatu Akhma Hassan in her opening keynote stated that smart and sustainable cities are no longer a distant vision.

“It’s a reality and Asia is at the forefront of this transformation. Governments across the region are actively shaping policies and incentives that encourage private sector investments, fostering urban development that embraces technological innovation for a better future,” said Saidatu.

She added that data is the cornerstone of smart cities. “It enables us to make informed decisions, optimise resources and improve services. By leveraging data analytics and artificial intelligence, we can unlock the full potential of smart city technologies and create a more resilient and sustainable urban environment.”

The Smart Cities Asia 2024 conference is a two-day (Sept 24-25) technology-centric conference covering topics such as smart mobility, smart healthcare and urban resilience and sustainability. Organised by Knowledge Group of Companies in partnership with MDEC, the conference is expected to draw over 250 delegates from local councils, planners, developers and data analysts.

 Looking to buy a home? Sign up for EdgeProp START and get exclusive rewards and vouchers for ANY home purchase in Malaysia (primary or subsale)!