Local governments in Selangor have been urged to optimise existing resources and adopt smarter practices alongside technology to boost service delivery.
Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said civil servants must proactively resolve administrative bottlenecks rather than relying solely on automated systems.
He was speaking at the Selangor Metamorphosis (MetaSEL) Appreciation Ceremony 2026 held in Shah Alam, where the winners of the 2026 Selangor Innovation Awards were also announced.
“We rely so heavily on technology that we treat innovation as a prerequisite for problem-solving.
“However, we must take the initiative to resolve issues using our available resources and capabilities.
“Systems such as e-Tanah, e-Aduan and e-Pembayaran streamline processes but if a physical file cannot be located or its reference number is missing, even the most advanced system will not solve the problem.”
Amirudin highlighted that while technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, automation, robotics and drones were advancing rapidly, they must also be deployed responsibly and ethically.
“These challenges remind us that the government must always be prepared to adapt.
“We need to act more swiftly, understand the needs of the people and find effective solutions in a constantly changing world.”
He added that public well- being remained a priority, with innovation being one of the most powerful tools available to address real-world issues.
The innovation awards this year themed “The Well-Being of the State of Selangor”, focused on practical solutions for everyday public issues, including street cleanliness and road maintenance.
Reflecting on the state’s digital trajectory, Amirudin recalled the launch of the MetaSEL initiative on Oct 3, 2025, which established a structured culture of innovation across the state administration.
MetaSEL encompasses the entire innovation journey, from identifying problems and generating ideas to developing and implementing solutions, followed by knowledge-sharing and the expansion of innovations that benefit the people.
This year, the platform fully managed the innovation awards from registration to evaluation.
The drive towards administrative excellence was further underscored during the Selangor Metamorphosis Symposium 2026 last month.
During the ceremony, several organisations were honoured for their innovative projects.
In the government sector category, Sabak Bernam Municipal Council emerged as champion for its Stone Scupper, a waste- filtering device installed at drain holes to reduce the risk of blockages and flooding.
For the private sector category, highway operator PLUS Malaysia Bhd clinched the win with its innovative road resurfacing solution using recycled road patching materials.
In the higher education category, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia emerged as champion for its innovative paint coating developed from rice straw to eliminate toxic, foul gases.
In the school category, SK Sungai Lang in Banting secured the top spot for its road patching compound made from recycled materials.
Also present at the appreciation event were Selangor Deputy State Secretary (management) Datuk Amirul Azizan Abd Rahim and state Islamic affairs and cultural innovation committee chairman Dr Mohammad Fahmi Ngah.
