JOHOR BARU: Johor has become Malaysia’s first smart state, achieving the target five years ahead of schedule.
State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said all 16 local authorities in Johor have achieved Level 1 Smart City Early Adopter status.
Part of the National Smart City Framework, the Smart City Early Adopter status is official recognition for local authorities that are implementing smart city initiatives.
Jafni said the Johor Baru City Council became the first local authority in the country to reach Level 3 Leading Smart City status.
Achieving Level 3 means the city council has implemented smart city initiatives in multiple domains and serves as a national benchmark for urban innovation.
The recognition was announced on Oct 28 as part of the state’s drive to integrate digital infrastructure and sustainable urban management across all districts.
Jafni said the success was the result of a coordinated effort led by PlanMalaysia@Johor, supported by all local councils, government agencies, universities and the private sector.
Key initiatives include the establishment of Smart Command Centres, installation of more than 2,000 smart closed-circuit television cameras in Greater Johor Baru, deployment of air quality sensors in residential and industrial zones, and the introduction of AI-driven traffic, waste and safety management systems.
“These efforts transform Johor from a digital state to a smart and sustainable one, where technology serves to boost quality of life and build community resilience.”
He added that the state was also advancing its Johor Green Deal agenda through low-carbon city programmes, electric vehicle charging network expansion, green building management, and public awareness campaigns promoting sustainable living.
“Johor’s success as Malaysia’s first smart state symbolises the triumph of the Maju Johor vision, where efficient, innovative and people-first leadership delivers results ahead of time.”
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