Malaysia is making history in 2025. From 17 to 19 September, Kuala Lumpur will host the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025 (SCEKL25), the first Southeast Asian edition of the globally renowned Smart City Expo World Congress Barcelona. This highly anticipated event puts Malaysia on the map as a leading force in digital transformation, smart infrastructure, and sustainable city-building across the ASEAN region.
The countdown has begun, and it’s more than just an event. With the theme “AI Cities: Shaping Our Digital Future”, SCEKL25 is a catalyst for the future of urban living. It represents a bold step in Malaysia’s journey to become a Smart Nation by 2040, aligning with national goals under the Fourth National Physical Plan (NPP4).
Driving ASEAN’s Digital Evolution
SCEKL25 is more than a conference, it’s a regional movement. Co-organised by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), under the Ministry of Digital, this three-day event will unite investors, global tech leaders, government officials, and policymakers under one roof.
With the ASEAN digital economy projected to hit USD1 trillion by 2030, smart cities are no longer optional, they’re urgent. The Expo aims to fuel collaboration, investment, and innovation, setting a clear vision for how AI and smart tech can power inclusive and resilient urban growth across Southeast Asia.
“SCEKL25 represents a bold step forward in Malaysia’s ambition to become a leading regional digital hub,” said YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital.
By hosting this landmark event while holding the ASEAN Chairmanship, Malaysia is poised to lead the regional agenda on digital connectivity and smart development.
Four Pillars Powering Malaysia’s Smart Future
SCEKL25 will focus on four main pillars that define the backbone of future-ready cities:
1. AI Cities
This pillar explores how artificial intelligence can revolutionise urban systems, from traffic flow and waste management to predictive policing and public health.
Cities equipped with intelligent systems can respond in real time, improve citizen experience, and streamline resource usage. This future is closer than we think.
2. Sustainable & Resilient Cities
With climate change and urban migration rising, sustainable infrastructure is no longer a trend, it’s a necessity.
This track highlights green tech, climate-resilient construction, renewable energy, and smart transportation to build cities that can thrive under pressure.
3. Digital Entrepreneurship & Economic Development
Technology is the enabler, but people are the drivers.
This pillar looks at how innovation ecosystems, tech startups, and digital businesses can power urban economic growth, create jobs, and bridge the digital divide in developing cities.
4. Community Empowerment Through Digital Solutions
True smart cities are inclusive.
This track focuses on education, healthcare access, social safety nets, and civic participation, all powered by technology. The goal is to ensure that digital growth leaves no one behind.
Global Players and Groundbreaking Partnerships
Top-tier global tech companies are already on board. The event will feature key partners including:
- Dell Technologies and Intel (Diamond Partners)
- Huawei (Official Innovation Partner)
- Ericsson (Gold Partner)
It also brings strategic support from local and regional champions like the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), Malaysia Smart Cities Alliance (MSCA), Smart Cities Network, and the Malaysia PropTech Association.
With over 2,000 delegates and 10,000 visitors expected, SCEKL25 is set to become a launchpad for smart city innovation and cross-border collaboration. The event will offer insights, exhibitions, networking sessions, and investment opportunities for tech-driven urban growth.
“As we count down to SCEKL25, DNB is proud to power Malaysia’s AI city ambition through our 5G infrastructure,” said Datuk Azman Ismail, CEO of DNB.
Why You Should Attend SCEKL25
Whether you’re a policymaker, investor, startup, academic, or urban planner, this is your opportunity to shape the cities of tomorrow.
Don’t miss the chance to learn how AI, 5G, IoT, and digital innovation are transforming everyday life, from waste collection to traffic lights, from public safety to energy grids.
Attending SCEKL25 means:
- Gaining exclusive insights from industry leaders
- Forming regional partnerships
- Exploring funding opportunities
- Contributing to a more inclusive, smart ASEAN future
Smart Cities Start with Smart Choices
Malaysia is not just participating in the smart city conversation, it’s leading it. By hosting Southeast Asia’s first Smart City Expo, Malaysia signals its intent and readiness to drive smart growth and digital prosperity for all.
With a theme focused on AI and sustainable development, SCEKL25 offers the region an actionable roadmap for the next decade of urban transformation.
Visit www.smartcityexpokl.com to register or learn more. The future starts now, and it starts in Kuala Lumpur.
