At least five cities are targeted to be recognised as early adopters of smart cities by 2025, which is the final period of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
According to the 12MP Midterm Review report (MRR) issued by the Ministry of Economy today, efforts will be made to accelerate the rating of smart cities based on the Sustainable Cities and Communities standard – Smart City Indicators (MS ISO 37122:2019).
“Such efforts will enable local authorities to improve service delivery and attract more investment,” according to the study.
In the meantime, in order to strengthen development towards a Resilient City, the adoption of the Environmentally Friendly Drainage Master Plan (PISMA) will be emphasized to deal with urban areas that are often hit by floods.
According to the MRR, accordingly, land use planning in the state structural plan and local plan will be aligned with PISMA to improve the drainage system in urban areas to reduce the occurrence of major floods.
Meanwhile, efforts will be taken to address the effects of rapid urbanization and climate change on cities to accelerate sustainable urban development.
“In the final period of 12MP, emphasis will be given to strengthen development towards resilient cities and improve the well-being of urban communities. This step will contribute towards a better quality of life in cities in line with the goals of the 2030 Agenda,” according to the study.
Meanwhile, in order to take advantage of the rural economic potential, suitable waste land in the area will be identified and utilized for community-based modern agricultural activities under the Farmer Entrepreneur Initiative (INTAN).
According to MRR, assistance will be provided for the cost of infrastructure, agricultural inputs, training and technical advisory services and will be implemented through collaboration with entities that purchase on contract and have a good reputation.
In addition, MRR informed that the income of rural farmers will be increased through additional and large-scale agricultural activities such as planting durian, avocado, pineapple in addition to seeds, fertilizers and advisory services will be provided to support these activities.
According to MRR the incubator for start-ups will be provided with a supporting ecosystem, including mentoring, research and development facilities and shared business tools.
“Natural landscapes and biodiversity as well as cultural heritage and traditional ways of life in rural areas will also be preserved to encourage rural tourism. The implementation of this initiative will create more job opportunities and increase the income of rural communities,” according to the study.
