By Dr Nurul Hidayah Shabdin (nurulhidayah@might.org.my) and Ts Anusha Magendram (anusha@might.org.my)
Shaping Future Cities for Future Generation
Cities worldwide are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) as a means to address complexity and promote sustainable development, particularly as urban populations grow and environmental problems become more urgent. AI is being used to make better use of resources, like energy, transportation, water and waste systems, as well as to make public service delivery more efficient and responsive. AI is changing how cities work at all levels, from predicting traffic jams and keeping an eye on air quality to automating administrative tasks and tailoring services for citizens. Machine learning, computer vision and natural language processing are now at the heart of the smart city agenda. These technologies enable realtime decision-making, predictive maintenance and data-driven city operations. These skills are no longer just nice to have; they are necessary for making cities that are smart, able to handle climate shocks, and provide services to everyone.
In Malaysia, using AI in city planning is no longer just a dream for the future; it is something that needs to happen right now. People are starting to see that using AI is a key part of the country’s bigger strategic goals, like protecting the environment, making the economy more open to everyone, and going digital. The Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, both of which heavily feature AI, are guiding the country’s transition towards a digital economy and smart cities. The AI is helping Malaysian cities deal with long-term problems like flooding, energy waste, traffic management, and getting people involved, while also opening up new doors for smart governance, green jobs and innovation.
Unlocking Urban Intelligence with AI
Cities can transition from reactive to predictive governance with AI. Urban authorities can predict traffic congestion, spot anomalies in the infrastructure, and customise services with the help of sophisticated data analytics and decision support systems. For example, real-time sensor data can optimise utility consumption, and AI-enhanced video analytics can manage traffic flows and enhance public safety.
Singapore’s intelligent transport systems, which use predictive models to improve commuter experiences and traffic, are prime examples of the benefits of AI in mobility. To enhance traffic signal responsiveness and automate incident detection, Kuala Lumpur’s Integrated Transport Information System (ITIS) in Malaysia has started integrating AI.
The applications of AI in sustainable urban planning can be framed as eight key pillars:
Catalysing AI for Urban Futures
The conversation around smart cities in Malaysia has been greatly influenced by the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), in collaboration with the Malaysia Smart Cities Alliance Association (MSCA), and through the publication of Malaysia Smart City Outlook (MSCO). MIGHT promotes cross-sector cooperation to incorporate digital innovations like AI into urban planning and service delivery. The AI Readiness Assessment for Smart Cities, developed under MSCO 2023–2024, is one noteworthy project. This assessment assists local governments in determining priority areas for AI adoption, such as smart mobility, flood forecasting and urban waste management, as well as evaluating digital maturity.
