GEORGE TOWN: Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib has commended the state’s two local authorities, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), for their commitment to strengthening urban governance, digital transformation and service delivery.
Ramli said the progress achieved by both councils reflects a strong and consistent push towards more efficient, integrated and citizen-centric administration.
"MBPP has shown commendable progress in advancing its smart city agenda through initiatives such as Virtual Penang (VIP), the Smart City Action Plan 2030, and the development of the AI-powered ChatMBPP system," he said in his speech at the official opening of the state assembly meeting here on Friday (May 9).
He added that these initiatives underline a clear shift towards data-driven governance, improving the way urban services are planned and delivered.
The integration of closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems, public complaint platforms, urban sensors and real-time analytics has also strengthened MBPP’s decision-making capabilities, resulting in improved traffic management, enhanced public safety and better overall urban efficiency, he added.
Ramli noted that the introduction of ChatMBPP, powered by generative artificial intelligence, marks a significant step forward in public service delivery by enabling faster and more accessible information for residents, while improving engagement between the local authority and the community.
Ramli also highlighted MBPP’s recognition under the Sirim ESG 55:2023 and Social Accountability 50:2021 certifications, as well as its inclusion in the Malaysia Book of Records, as evidence of its commitment to sustainable governance, integrity and social responsibility.
Turning to MBSP, he commended the council for its consistent excellence in urban management and public service delivery.
He said MBSP’s achievements, including the National Occupational Safety and Health Award (NCOSH) 2024, the Excellence in Urban Environmental Management Award by the Waste Management Association of Malaysia (WMAM), and recognition by the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP), reflect a strong institutional culture of professionalism and performance.
"I am confident these achievements will strengthen MBSP’s position as a leading, competitive and benchmark-setting local authority at the national level," he added.
