Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's drive towards a people-centred digital transformation must guarantee that every citizen, regardless of location or income, has equal access to digital opportunities as the nation accelerates its shift toward a smarter, more connected future. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof emphasized the need for inclusive digital access during his opening address at the Smart Nation Expo 2025.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadillah, who also serves as the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, outlined the government's vision for a digitally advanced Malaysia. The plan includes developing advanced digital infrastructure, nurturing a future-ready talent pool, and fostering sustainable urban systems. These efforts aim to create high-value jobs and enable communities to fully engage in the nation's digital progress.
Fadillah stated, 'Malaysia's ambition is clear. We are not here to follow the digital revolution. We are here to lead it. At the heart of all our efforts lies a guiding conviction: technology must uplift people.' He stressed the importance of a collective advancement where every citizen benefits from the nation's progress.
He further elaborated on his ministry's commitment to promoting renewable energy, enhancing energy resilience, advancing smart water management, and integrating green technologies. Malaysia's vision of progress, he explained, hinges on digitalisation and sustainability as interdependent pillars, ensuring the nation evolves not only smarter but also greener, safer, and more resilient.
Fadillah noted that Malaysia's national aspirations align with the Malaysia Smart City Framework, which envisions inclusive digital access, seamless public services, efficient mobility, and intelligently operated energy and water systems.
Meanwhile, the Smart Nation Expo 2025, themed "Driving Digitalisation Towards a Smart Economy," features over 300 participating companies and expects to draw more than 21,000 industry professionals from across the region until November 20. The expo is co-located with Electric Vehicle Manufacturing (EVM) Asia and Data Centre Asia Malaysia, highlighting advancements in next-generation mobility and data infrastructure.
Three major summits are being held concurrently at the event: the Digital Economy Leaders' Summit 2025, the Asia Smart Cities Summit 2025, and the EIC Forum. Additionally, more than 50 Technology Talks will cover topics such as 5G adoption, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart city solutions.
The statement from the Smart Nation Expo 2025 organizers described the event as Southeast Asia's most comprehensive technology and innovation showcase. The organizers expressed confidence that the expo will continue to drive Malaysia's digital growth and support the nation's ambition to become a regional leader in the digital economy.