Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised that the development of smart cities in Malaysia must be driven by local expertise using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who is also the finance minister, stated that in an increasingly complex world, cities face challenges arising from rapid population growth, diverse demography, environmental issues, and increasingly sophisticated infrastructure needs. "This is where digital technologies such as AI offer us the tools to respond to these proactively," he noted.
Anwar elaborated on the benefits of AI by explaining how its capabilities could be leveraged in various sectors such as energy, water, and waste management. He emphasized the potential of AI in strengthening national resilience through technology-empowered disaster response. He pointed out that smart cities enhance cost efficiencies, reduce environmental footprints, and fortify urban areas to be better prepared for future challenges.
In his keynote address during the opening ceremony of the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur, Anwar highlighted that AI-empowered government services could also increase accessibility and ensure consistency in responses. This would, in turn, strengthen the government's commitment towards justice, stability, and the safety of the nation. He further stressed that smart cities must be built for the people, serve their purpose, and be championed by local enterprises to enhance the nation's technological advancement.
Anwar underscored the importance of solutions that reflect Malaysia's unique needs and values. He advocated for fostering innovation and supporting homegrown talent to reduce reliance on external technologies and ensure data sovereignty.
To achieve these goals, the prime minister revealed that Digital National Bhd (DNB), in collaboration with Ericsson, will be launching a 21st-century technologies education programme. This initiative aims to upskill over 40,000 public sector personnel across various levels and municipalities, equipping them with competencies in AI, data science, and digital governance.