PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will travel to Sabah tomorrow to assess the worsening flood situation in the state.
“I will be there tomorrow,” he said briefly when asked about the government’s response to the disaster.
The situation in Sabah has reportedly deteriorated in recent days, with several districts affected by severe flooding and thousands displaced.
The Prime Minister made the comment after officiating the 46th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA GA) in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.
Anwar underlined that smart city development is a vital part of Malaysia’s digital transformation and its vision for an inclusive, sustainable, and competitive Madani society.
He stressed that smart cities are not just about advanced technology or artificial intelligence, but fundamentally about improving the well-being of citizens.
“Smart cities are not just about technology or sophisticated AI, but they are closely linked to the welfare of the people,” he said. “They must address public concerns such as the cost of living, public amenities, and quality of life.”
Speaking at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Anwar explained that the Expo aligns with the Malaysia Digital vision, with Putrajaya serving as a pilot through the Kota Madani development. Kuala Lumpur itself is set to become a key hub for smart city initiatives across the country.
“More than half of ASEAN’s population is expected to reside in urban areas by 2030, demanding new approaches to city management. Smart city development must be anchored on Madani principles of compassion and equitable opportunities for all. Technology is merely a tool; the ultimate goal is the well-being of the people,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of ethics, cybersecurity, and data privacy in applying AI technology to urban environments, cautioning against developments that create ‘concrete jungles’ lacking cultural identity.
Supporting this vision, the government, through Digital Nasional Berhad, has launched a technology education programme to train over 40,000 civil servants in AI, data science, and digital governance.
“Malaysia now has a solid foundation with 5G network coverage exceeding 82 percent of the country and expected to reach 98 percent by the 13th Malaysia Plan, which will further strengthen the national smart city agenda,” he added.
Echoing the Prime Minister’s call, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, in a Facebook post, described SCEKL2025 as more than just an exhibition, but a platform to showcase practical solutions, foster collaboration across sectors, and solidify Malaysia’s leadership in AI-driven urban transformation.
“Today marks the launch of Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025, a historic event that brings together thought leaders and visionary ideas from across Malaysia, ASEAN, and the world,” Gobind said. “SCEKL2025 is not just an exhibition; it is a platform for sharing practical solutions, forging partnerships, and demonstrating Malaysia’s progress in AI-enabled urban transformation.”
Under the theme “AI Cities,” the Expo aims to showcase how artificial intelligence will be integrated into urban systems to create smarter, more responsive cities that better serve their residents.
“For years, major cities have embraced digital tools to improve infrastructure and public services,” Gobind explained. “Now, with AI, we are entering a new phase — one where technology creates more resilient, adaptive, and people-centric urban environments.”
He emphasised Malaysia’s ambition to become an “AI Nation,” with artificial intelligence as a key driver of socio-economic growth, governance, and everyday life.
“I reiterated our commitment to ensuring that the benefits of technological advancement are shared equitably, inclusively, and sustainably,” Gobind said. “We will continue supporting city leaders, innovators, and communities as partners in Malaysia’s digital journey.”
He concluded that Malaysia has the potential to build cities that are not only smart, but also efficient, inclusive, and future-ready. - September 18, 2025
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