KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s ambition to become an artificial intelligence (AI) nation is moving a step closer with the hosting of the Smart Cities Expo Kuala Lumpur (SCEKL), says Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.
Gobind said the event provides a platform for collaboration between global experts, city leaders, technology giants and local innovators to put Malaysia’s AI vision into practice.
“This expo becomes a living laboratory where ideas are tested, partnerships forged, and AI applications demonstrated in real-world contexts,” he said at the opening ceremony yesterday.
“It allows us to translate our vision of an AI nation into practice, city by city, community by community. By showcasing real-world applications in mobility, energy, governance and healthcare, SCEKL transforms vision into action, making the AI nation not just a policy goal but a tangible reality unfolding in our cities today.”
Gobind said the strength of SCEKL lies in opportunities for collaboration, with 22 mayors and city leaders from across the region, including the Philippines and Thailand, joining the event to signal a shared commitment to shape a common urban future.
“By working together, our cities can learn from one another, share best practices and build solutions to challenges that transcend borders,” he said.
The expo brings together 120 exhibitors featuring smart city and AI innovations, including Kuala Lumpur City Hall with its KL Command & Control Centre, alongside technology players such as Huawei, Intel and Dell.
Gobind also highlighted the upcoming AI Nation 2030 Roadmap, which will align with the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and the National 4IR Policy.
The roadmap identifies agriculture, education, healthcare, smart cities, transport and public services as strategic sectors where AI adoption can deliver significant impact.
“Ultimately, the AI nation vision is about empowering people – not just through technology, but through opportunity, inclusion and trust,” Gobind said.
“It’s about ensuring that AI serves more than just industry or government. It must uplift communities, enhance public services and improve everyday lives.
“This vision calls for a future where technology is not only advanced, but also ethical, accessible and human-centred – where every citizen benefits from innovation, and no one is left behind in the digital transformation,” he added.
