I-Nation Global Summit 2024 To Propel ASEAN's Technological Growth 

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 2 (Bernama) -- The I-Nation Global Summit 2024 serves as a significant platform to bring together diverse sectors and stakeholders in driving collaboration and cross-border partnerships that will accelerate the technological progress in ASEAN.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang said the three-day summit comes at a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s journey towards becoming a leading technology hub.

“One area where we’re seeing rapid progress is renewable energy, with Malaysia on track to increase its renewable energy capacity to 31 per cent of the national energy mix by 2025. This shift not only supports our national sustainability goals but also positions us as a key player in the region’s green transition,  a critical focus as we prepare to assume the role of Chair of ASEAN in 2025.

“Guided by the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, we are committed to ensuring that all ASEAN nations benefit from shared prosperity and technological advancements,” he said.

He said this in his opening remarks at the launch of the I-Nation Global Summit 2024 organised by The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) with the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI) here, today. The event was launched by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

Chang said achieving these goals requires collaboration across ministries, agencies and stakeholders and by adopting a Whole-of-Government (WGA) approach, effective policies can be driven as well as to promote economic growth and champion sustainable development across the region.

Meanwhile, he said the development of Smart Cities is directly aligned with Malaysia’s priorities as Chair of ASEAN, as they embody the principles of inclusivity and sustainability.

"Malaysia’s Smart City framework reflects this vision by promoting the use of Artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT) and digital solutions to address urban challenges.

"Through initiatives like National Technology Innovation Sandbox (NTIS), innovative companies such as Vectolabs Technologies are driving progress in smart cities and transportation via its innovative LoRa IoT Network, addressing critical urban challenges and improving operational efficiency. 

 "Similarly, the recently launched PropTech Sandbox, in partnership with SP Setia, is fostering sustainable housing solutions that align with international frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," he said.

Additionally, Chang said MOSTI through the Industry Technology Innovation Centre (ITIC) is driving smart city development by advancing AI, IoT, and geospatial technologies to enhance public safety, energy efficiency and urban infrastructure.

“Collaborating with Malaysian Industry Government Group for High-Technology (MIGHT) and the Malaysia Smart City Alliance, the Industry Technology Innovation Centre (ITIC) reflects Malaysia’s dedication to using cutting-edge technologies like AI, extended reality (XR) and robotics to improve urban living,” he said.

He said the summit is especially exciting as alongside the main summit discussions there will be several satellite events highlighting the advancements in several technology areas.

Among the satellite events taking place are The Supercharger Summit, Malaysia HealthTech Innovation Connect 2024 and Ecosystem Builder Summit.

  -- BERNAMA