Malaysia's Smart City Challenge: Overcoming the Digital Divide

Malaysia's Smart City Ambitions: Bridging the Digital Divide Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – June 5, 2025 – The successful implementation of smart city projects in Malaysia faces a critical challenge: bridging the digital divide. Despite widespread 5G coverage exceeding 80% nationwide, significant disparities persist, particularly in suburban and rural areas. This was highlighted by Mohamad Sirajjudin Jalil, President of the Malaysian Cyber Consumers Association (MCCA), in a recent interview. "The success of smart cities in Malaysia depends on two key components: strong telecommunications infrastructure and clear policies from local governments," Jalil stated. He emphasized the need for collaboration between the federal government, local authorities, and the private sector to address the issue. The digital divide is evident in areas surrounding major cities in Selangor, where access to high-speed internet remains limited. This lack of connectivity hinders the full realization of smart city initiatives aimed at improving services and quality of life for all citizens. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is actively working to expand internet coverage, but Jalil stressed that this effort alone is insufficient. Clear policies and coordinated efforts from local governments are equally crucial to ensure that smart city technologies benefit all communities. The Malaysian government's commitment to smart city development is a significant step towards modernization. Addressing the digital divide is paramount to ensure that the benefits of this initiative are shared equitably, promoting inclusive growth and development for all Malaysians.