CONFERENCE

#SCEKL25

AI CITIES

SHAPING OUR DIGITAL FUTURE

As the world transitions into an era defined by intelligent technologies, AI Cities represent the next evolution of urban life, where artificial intelligence, sustainability, and human needs converge to shape how we live, move, work, and connect.

AI CITIES: SHAPING OUR DIGITAL FUTURE is more than a theme, it is a call to action. It reflects a global shift toward building cities that are not only smarter, but also more inclusive, resilient, and purpose-driven. These cities leverage AI to solve complex challenges, from mobility to energy, from citizen services to climate resilience, while ensuring that technology serves the people, not the other way around.

Theme

KEY FOCUS AREAS

#SCEKL25

ALIGNING WITH MALAYSIA’S DIGITAL ROADMAP & SMART CITY VISION


In line with Malaysia’s Digital Economy Blueprint, the Malaysia Smart City Framework, and the nation’s MADANI values, this theme signals the country’s ambition to lead ASEAN’s transformation through AI-powered innovation that is ethical, equitable, and sustainable.

AI cities
Governments across Southeast Asia are adopting national AI strategies to modernise city services and infrastructure - accelerating the shift toward intelligent, responsive, and data-driven cities.
Sustainable & resilient cities
AI-powered systems are being deployed to enhance climate adaptation, improve energy efficiency, and build resilient urban infrastructure, aligning with regional goals under MPAC 2025 and the ASEAN Smart City Framework.
Digital entrepreneurship
ASEAN’s digital economy is projected to exceed USD 1 trillion by 2030. Governments are fostering AI startup ecosystems, urban tech sandboxes, and digital entrepreneurship hubs to unlock inclusive economic growth and future-proof employment.
Community empowerment through digital solutions
Cities are embracing AI to deliver more accessible citizen services, promote digital equity, and close the urban-rural divide. ASEAN initiatives are investing in digital literacy, e-government platforms,and financial inclusion through tech for underserved populations.

Your Role Matters

KEY OUTCOMES

#SCEKL25

cREATE awareness

Create awareness and spark conversation on the role of AI in inclusive urban transformation, ensuring all citizens benefit equitably from digital innovation and access to smart city resources.

cross-sector collaboration

Strengthen cross-sector collaboration among city leaders, industry, academia, and policymakers to drive responsible AI deployment and build resilient, future-ready urban ecosystems.

 

ASEAN as a leader

Position ASEAN as a leader in the innovation hub, highlighting its appeal for foreign direct investment (FDI) through its readiness to adopt cutting-edge technologies.

Expert Talks

Bringing Ideas

TO LIFE

From 17 – 19 September, 2025, Malaysia is making history as the first Southeast Asian country to host Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur (SCEKL).

 

This groundbreaking event positions Malaysia as a global innovation leader, driving growth in the digital sector and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).

The conference brings together policymakers, industry experts, and visionaries to explore the future of smart cities, accelerate digital transformation, and shape the next era of urban living.

Featured Topics

Deep Dives into

Critical Issues

#SCEKL25 will feature discussions on critical smart city topics, including:

 

Bridging the Digital Divide: Inclusive AI in Urban Development
AI-powered urban planning, predictive analytics, and real-time decision-making are transforming city development. By integrating AI with digital infrastructure, cities can enhance economic participation and create adaptive, inclusive spaces that cater to diverse communities.

 

Bridging the Digital Divide: Ensuring Access to Smart City Innovations for All
Digital inclusion is vital for economic growth and social equity. AI is revolutionising urban mobility, enabling smart public transportation, optimising traffic flows, and improving accessibility through real-time data. The future of work in AI-powered cities also sees AI fostering new job markets, upskilling talent, and promoting digital entrepreneurship, ensuring economic opportunities for all.

 

AI in Smart City Infrastructure for Sustainability
AI plays a critical role in sustainable urban development by optimising energy use, monitoring water and air quality, and driving green initiatives. The digital economy’s expansion into AI-powered economic inclusion ensures that smart investments support sustainable practices, fostering a greener, data-driven urban future. Ethical AI governance and cybersecurity measures further ensure that technology adoption remains transparent, secure, and beneficial for future generations.

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