KUALA LUMPUR, (14 July 2025) – Malaysia is set to take on the role of leading Southeast Asia’s digital future when it hosts its inaugural international event, the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025 (SCEKL25), this September. This international expo will spotlight Malaysia’s growing leadership in the region’s transition towards Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven urban development— one that places the well-being of the rakyat at its core while advancing sustainable, inclusive growth in partnership with ASEAN neighbors.

SCEKL25 is the first Southeast Asian edition of the globally renowned Smart City Expo World Congress and is spearheaded by the Ministry of Digital through its agencies, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB). The event is expected to attract over 2,000 delegates and welcome more than 10,000 visitors throughout its run from 17 to 19 September at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

Malaysia’s Minister of Digital YB Gobind Singh Deo said that this initiative provides a strategic platform for technology providers and AI-centric smart city solution players, positioning Malaysia as a central hub for digital innovation across the region.

“At its core, SCEKL25 is about accelerating a new urban vision — one that is green, efficient, and inclusive, with the rakyat at the heart of every innovation,” said Gobind in a statement. “As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia continues to lay strong foundations for AI-driven, people-centric cities across the region.

SCEKL25 supports this mission by aligning with national initiatives like the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, regional collaborations through the ASEAN Smart Cities Network, and supports the aspiration to become a Smart Nation by 2040.

“SCEKL25 amplifies these efforts by positioning Malaysia — and Kuala Lumpur in particular — as a growing hub for smart city innovation and digital transformation in Southeast Asia. This leadership is timely, as the region’s digital economy is projected to reach US$1 trillion in gross merchandise value by 2030, driven by rapid urbanisation and a dynamic, tech-savvy workforce,” he added.

Under the Ministry of Digital, MDEC is currently leading the development of a smart city ecosystem through the AI Cities initiatives by implementing targeted, high-impact pilots in selected cities across the nation.

Meanwhile, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil said: “Through SCEKL25, we are translating national ambitions and regional priorities into tangible urban transformation. From predictive traffic and road closure systems in Penang, to smart traffic optimisation in Kuala Lumpur, and AI-powered geospatial intelligence in Sabah, Malaysia is paving the way for AI to become an everyday enabler of smarter, more connected lives.”

“Our smart cities will be rakyat-first and planet-conscious to deliver faster, more adaptive public services. And, with robust digital infrastructure to drive inclusive growth, startups and SMEs will be able to scale beyond borders,” added Anuar.

He explained that, by building a collaborative ecosystem and championing digital inclusion, Malaysia continues to shape a future where the digital economy is a catalyst for equality and shared prosperity.

“Anchored by MDEC’s commitment to accelerate high-value digital innovation, AI Cities will serve as the nexus of policy, innovation, and public purpose to propel Malaysia toward its vision of becoming a leading AI Nation,” said Anuar.

Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) CEO Datuk Azman Ismail said that hosting SCEKL25 presents multifaceted benefits and strategic opportunities for Malaysia. “SCEKL25 will elevate Malaysia’s global profile in smart city innovation, while driving economic growth through business tourism and strategic foreign investment,” said Datuk Azman.

“More than just an expo, it serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and policy advancement— bringing together global leaders to tackle urban challenges and shape smarter, more sustainable cities.

“By showcasing breakthrough technologies, smart infrastructure, and future-ready mobility solutions, SCEKL25 will help cities move toward a better, more inclusive future — where innovation serves people and the planet.”

Under the theme 'AI Cities: Shaping Our Digital Future', SCEKL25 will take place from 17 to 19 September at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Visit www.smartcityexpokl.com for more information as Malaysia prepares to host this landmark event. 

Issued by:

Corporate Communications Division

Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC