MEMBER’S INSIGHT
by Maimunah Jaffar MSCA Committee Member
“Intermediate project” with the integration of technology but with no connected devices, such as LED street lightings and solar panel instalment. “Advanced project” with the integration of technology and digital with connected devices to data platform for an informed decision, such as smart traffic lights and smart bins.
In the last 5 years, Iskandar Regional Development Authorities has networked and facilitated many cities, locally and internationally under the umbrella of Iskandar Malaysia and the ASEAN Smart City Network or ASCN. Through various engagements, the top 3 key challenges faced by many cities in Smart city implementation includes: Understanding the definition of Smart City The city should not select a Smart City project just because other cities are doing it as smart city project implementation is to provide a solution to make the city a better place to live, work and recreate. Therefore, cities need to understand what the key urban challenges in the city are – and how the deployment of digital or technology can improve or solve city issues. After understanding the challenges – cities need to prioritise projects based on importance and readiness as a city government and do not get overwhelmed by many ideas proposed by the solution providers. To City Readiness Many cities feel they are not ready to embark on the smart city journey. Issues include area govern by them are yet to have fast and reliable internet connectivity, current resources are not into tech-savvy and limited top leadership to champion Smart City projects. To facilitate this unreadiness matters, cities may categorize smart city projects into three (3) categories. Challenges and funding strategies for Smart City Implementation
Project funding Funding is a major challenge for cities to embark on smart city projects. Smart City is a new game changer and councils might not have the resources in place. Therefore, bringing the private sector in has many advantages as they can bring in the technical know-how, introduce innovation that complements public-sector efforts and may provide funding with a win-win business model. Understanding the definition of smart city and cities priority projects are important to ensure selected solution complement sustainability agenda for the city. Smart City Iskandar Malaysia is a tool to accelerate Iskandar Malaysia towards achieving its vision towards becoming a ‘Strong and Sustainable Metropolis of International Standing’. Our definition of a Smart City is a city that optimises digital, technology, data and insights to improve the quality of economy, social and environment in our effort to become a sustainable nation and solve cities' sustainability challenges.
Smart City Project Categories
“Beginner project” which focus on sustainability projects without technology intervention such as promoting walking, cycling and usage of public transportation.
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MSCA 2022
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