Kuala lumpur: The preparation of the ASEAN Smart City Action Plan (ASCAP) 2026-2035, a regional strategic reference for shaping green, inclusive, and digital cities, is among the key highlights of the 8th Annual Meeting of the ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN8), according to Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Nga, who is also UN-Habitat president, stated that ASEAN can set an example for the world, demonstrating that urban development is not only smart but also humane and people-centered. The Malaysian News agency (Bernama) reported that Nga emphasized the importance of ASCN not just being about modern technology or sophisticated infrastructure, but being anchored on people, communities, and societal values that bind the region.
Nga highlighted that ASCN8 is not merely an annual meeting but a symbol of ASEAN's collective determination in shaping future cities that are inclusive, livable, and sustainable. He made these remarks in a statement released today.
The ASCN8 meeting, which Nga opened, runs from September 8 to 12 and brings together regional leaders, smart city experts, and various stakeholders in conjunction with Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship 2025. Nga noted that the event showcases international acknowledgment of Malaysia's leadership in developing sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities.
Through the meeting, Malaysia is aiming to reinforce its regional leadership and strengthen ASEAN cooperation, with a focus on realizing the smart and sustainable urban agenda for future generations. The meeting is themed "Fostering Stronger Cooperation Towards a Common Goal for Smart and Sustainable Urban Development in ASEAN."
In addition to the official meeting, ASCN8's agenda includes policy and technical discussions through the Smart City Connect Exhibition and Smart City Expert Talk. These platforms aim to connect governments, the private sector, and civil society, as stated in the official statement.