PETALING JAYA: Asean nations are charting plans to shape the countries into greener, more inclusive and digital cities in the future.
With the guidance of Asean Smart City Action Plan (ASCAP) 2026–2035, these plans were discussed during the 8th Asean Smart Cities Network Annual Meeting (ASCN8) hosted by Malaysia.
This meeting, which commenced from Sept 8 to 12 was attended by regional leaders, smart city experts and various stakeholders under Malaysia’s Asean Chairmanship 2025 along with Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
“Today is not just the opening of a meeting but the beginning of a shared journey. A space where dreams and aspirations come together, and hope is set in motion to illuminate the future of our cities and communities.” said Nga, who officiated ASCN8 at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
He added that the meeting discussed policy and technical discussions through the Smart City Connect Exhibition and Smart City Expert Talk.
“These discussions serve as platforms connecting governments, the private sector and civil society while celebrating the creativity of Asean citizens and the innovation of global partners in various aspects of smart urbanisation,” Nga added.
“As the president of UN-Habitat, I believe Asean can set an example for the world that urban development is not only about intelligence but also about compassion and prioritising the well-being of the people.” he added.
Nga said in a statement that ASCN8 delegates are also scheduled to make official visits to the Putrajaya Command Centre and Putrajaya Wetlands to observe Malaysia’s progress in digital infrastructure development and sustainability-focused environmental conservation.
“ASCN8 is a symbol of Asean’s collective determination to shape future cities that are inclusive, liveable and sustainable.
“In line with the spirit of ‘Leaving No One Behind’, Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to ensure that the benefits of urban development are felt by people in both cities and rural areas.
Aligning with the theme ‘Fostering Stronger Cooperation Towards Common Goal for Smart and Sustainable Urban Development in Asean’, Malaysia once again strengthens its regional leadership towards a more stronger Asean cooperation in realising the smart and sustainable city agenda for the coming generations.
