KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia today officially launched the 100-day countdown to the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025 (SCEKL25), as the country prepares to host Southeast Asia’s first edition of the globally renowned Smart City Expo World Congress.
Set to take place this September in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the event is more than just a showcase of technology.
It represents a bold statement of Malaysia’s vision, readiness, and leadership in smart city development and digital transformation.
“As we take on the ASEAN Chairmanship this year, this Expo reflects our commitment to shaping the future of urban innovation — not just for Malaysia, but for the entire region,” said the Digital Minister, Gobind Singh Deo, during the launch at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.
AI Cities: Shaping Our Digital Future
Themed “AI Cities: Shaping Our Digital Future,” SCEKL25 underscores Malaysia’s ambition to lead the next wave of urban transformation where artificial intelligence (AI) powers smarter, safer, and more inclusive cities.
“This is not just about technology. It’s about people,” Gobind emphasized. “It’s about building cities that are intelligent, resilient, and inclusive.”
“These pillars reflect our commitment to a digital future that is inclusive, intelligent, and sustainable — aligned with the values of Malaysia MADANI,” Gobind added.
Powered by MDEC and DNB
The Minister credited the progress to Malaysia’s key digital agencies. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), through the Malaysia Digital (MD) initiative, has streamlined incentives and boosted investor confidence. As of July 2024, over 140 local AI solution providers have joined the MD ecosystem, generating more than RM1 billion in revenue.
Malaysia also recorded a significant RM163.6 billion in digital investments in 2024 — more than triple the previous year, with digital export opportunities valued at RM1.9 billion across 11 countries.
Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has played a pivotal role in building the infrastructure needed to support AI-driven smart cities.
With 5G coverage reaching over 82% of populated areas and a penetration rate exceeding 60%, Malaysia is well-equipped to deploy real-time urban solutions from traffic management to environmental monitoring.
Regional Leadership and ASEAN Chairmanship
As Chair of ASEAN in 2025, Malaysia is advancing the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) — a regional initiative poised to unlock USD2 trillion in digital economic potential by 2030 through cross-border investment, enhanced market access, and harmonised digital regulation.
“Hosting SCEKL25 is part of this broader leadership agenda,” said Gobind. “It positions Malaysia as a regional hub for smart city innovation, public-private collaboration, and inclusive digital development.”
A Regional Platform for Progress
SCEKL25 is expected to draw over 10,000 delegates, 300 exhibitors, and participants from more than 20 countries, serving as a dynamic platform for policy-to-project collaboration, investor engagement, and real-world urban innovation.
The event has already garnered strong support from major global tech players, including Dell, Intel, Ericsson, and Huawei, alongside leading associations such as the Malaysia Smart Cities Alliance (MSCA), Smart Cities Network, MIGHT, and the Malaysia PropTech Association.
“More than just an event, SCEKL25 is designed to deliver real outcomes — from stronger public-private partnerships and regional investments to new opportunities for entrepreneurs and SMEs across Malaysia,” said Gobind.
As the countdown begins, Malaysia stands ready to welcome the world to Kuala Lumpur this September and demonstrate that its cities are not only connected — they are conscious, inclusive, and future-ready.
