JOHOR BARU: An RM56mil allocation will be channelled into a series of projects to accelerate Johor’s transformation into a more liveable state under the Smart City development agenda for 2026, says state executive councillor Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor.
The Johor housing and local government committee chairman said a total of 2,000 smart closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras would be installed in phases across Greater Johor Baru under the agenda.
The cameras will be placed at critical areas, including city centres, dense residential neighbourhoods, educational institutions and major traffic routes.
“Other initiatives include real-time water quality monitoring stations to give early flood warnings by tracking river levels, as well as air quality monitoring systems in industrial and urban areas to protect public health.
“Smart waste management through smart bins will also be introduced to better manage solid waste, keeping towns cleaner, more sustainable and more efficient,” he said during the launch of the Johor Smart City Forum 2025 at Persada Johor International Convention Centre here on Monday (Sept 22).
Another initiative is the introduction of smart traffic lights, which adjust traffic cycles based on live traffic flow.
“Johoreans will benefit from smoother journeys and safer streets when these systems are fully operational,” he said.
Mohd Jafni said the Smart City initiatives were not about showcasing sophisticated technology but about making practical improvements to people’s daily lives.
“Technology is merely a tool. The true goal is the well-being of Johoreans, and these projects are meant to create a better, more organised and resilient way of life,” he said.
He said the allocation demonstrated that the state was serious about implementing urban transformation and not merely engaging in policy rhetoric.
“The rollout of smart systems would also support the work of all 16 local councils in achieving indicators set by the Housing and Local Government Ministry.
“With wider coverage, residents will enjoy cities that are safer, more organised and more people-centric,” he added.
At the same time, he stressed that the Smart City agenda must remain inclusive rather than elitist.
“Inclusive smart cities ensure that technology benefits everyone, not just the privileged,” he said.
Citing Greater Johor Baru as an example, Mohd Jafni said the fast-growing southern metropolitan hub demanded comprehensive and technology-driven urban planning.
“With its expanding population and role as the country’s main gateway, Johor cannot continue to rely on conventional models of development. We must embrace innovation if we want to remain competitive and sustainable,” he said.
