Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasizes the importance of local expertise and AI in Malaysia’s smart city development.
- AI can effectively manage urban challenges, including population growth and infrastructure demands.
- A new education program aims to upskill over 40,000 public sector workers in AI and digital governance.
Local Expertise and AI Drive Smart City Initiatives
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized the necessity of integrating local expertise and artificial intelligence (AI) into Malaysia’s smart city initiatives. At the Smart City Expo in Kuala Lumpur, he highlighted the critical role of AI in addressing urban challenges, such as rapid population growth, environmental pressures, and infrastructural demands.
Anwar stated that AI provides vital tools for managing these pressing issues. “From energy, water, and waste management to disaster response, smart cities powered by AI can cut costs, lower environmental footprints, and strengthen national resilience,” he explained. The Prime Minister reiterated that implementing AI in public services could enhance accessibility and fairness in governance, aligning with Malaysia’s broader goals of justice, stability, and safety.
He encouraged the nation to prioritize solutions tailored to local needs, advocating for the reduction of reliance on foreign technologies. “By fostering innovation and supporting homegrown talent, we can ensure data sovereignty,” Anwar remarked, positing that local expertise is integral to sustainable development.
In conjunction with these initiatives, Anwar announced a collaborative effort between Digital National Bhd and Ericsson to launch a comprehensive education program. This initiative aims to upskill more than 40,000 public sector personnel in AI, data science, and digital governance, preparing them for managing future-ready cities. The emphasis on local talent development illustrates the government’s commitment to nurturing a skilled workforce capable of leveraging technology for national progress.
Overall, the Prime Minister’s speech at the expo not only sets a clear vision for Malaysia’s smart city landscape but also reinforces the importance of localized solutions and innovations to meet the challenges of modern urbanization. With a strong focus on education and workforce development, Malaysia aims to position itself at the forefront of smart city advancements through practical and sustainable approaches.
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