Perak: The Perak state government today launched two important documents - the Perak Digital Economy Action Plan 2030 and the Perak Smart City Blueprint 2040. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad stated that these documents were created in line with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 vision, which aims to enhance the state's efficiency, sustainability, and prosperity through digital empowerment and data-driven urban planning.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Digital Economy Action Plan 2030 emphasizes four main pillars: access to quality digital infrastructure, efficient digital public administration, a dynamic digital-driven business ecosystem, and an empowered digital society. The plan identifies 21 programs with five catalytic projects prioritized, such as expanding digital coverage via the JENDELA initiative, developing Point-of-Presence (POP) infrastructure, and utilizing Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to improve rural connectivity.
Key initiatives also include strengthening cashless payment systems for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and setting up centers of excellence like the Smart Perak Research and Innovation Centre (SPRIN) and AI Academy. As for the Smart City Blueprint 2040, Saarani highlighted that it outlines seven core components, 22 policies, 52 strategies, and 132 phased initiatives, which aim to drive smart city development across the state by 2040.
The blueprint seeks to construct cities that are inclusive, responsive, and sustainable, focusing on the People-Centric Smart City concept that prioritizes public needs and wellbeing. Saarani expressed gratitude to local authorities such as the Ipoh City Council (MBI), Teluk Intan Municipal Council (MPTI), Manjung Municipal Council (MPM), and Kampar District Council (MDKpr) for their early adoption of the smart city agenda.
To ensure effective implementation of both plans, the state has established the Perak Digital Economy Council (MEDi) and the Perak Smart City Steering Committee. MEDi is composed of four strategic pillars - infrastructure, economy, public digitalization, and society, each led by the respective state executive councillor. Similarly, the Smart City Steering Committee will follow a parallel structure, reflecting the interconnected nature of both initiatives.