MALAYSIA CHAMPIONS DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AS SMART NATION EXPO 2024 KICKS OFF AT MITEC

Setting the tone for the event, YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital Malaysia, delivered a compelling opening address emphasising the nation's commitment to digital leadership. "Our national digital initiatives align seamlessly with the themes of this expo. We aim to position Malaysia as a regional leader in the digital economy, fostering an ecosystem that encourages innovation, investment, and collaboration among various stakeholders," the Minister declared.

In support of this vision, the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), as a thought leader and supporting partner, leverages its expertise in driving digital transformation, aligning the expo seamlessly with national digital initiatives and the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint.

The expo's Chairman, YBhg Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr Hj. Mohd Nasir Mohd Ashraf reinforced this vision by highlighting the event's practical focus on delivering tangible business outcomes. "We have designed this space to facilitate not just conversations, but conversions – where handshakes turn into partnerships, and discussions transform into deals," said Tan Sri Nasir.

This commitment to actionable outcomes is echoed throughout the expo, particularly in the nine international pavilions featuring technological powerhouses including China, Taiwan, Singapore, Hungary, Korea, and many more. These pavilions showcase cutting-edge advancements in 5G technology, smart cities, Industry 4.0, and emerging technologies.

The strategic co-location of EVM Asia 2024 and AgriX 2024 amplifies the expo's comprehensive approach to digital transformation. EVM Asia 2024, the region’s premier electric vehicle and e-mobility event, convenes industry leaders to explore innovations in electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and battery technology, aligning with Malaysia's sustainable transportation goals. Complementing this, AgriX 2024 demonstrates how digital solutions are revolutionising agriculture, presenting advanced tools and technologies that enhance farming practices and strengthen regional food security.

“What makes this year truly special is our strategic decision to co-locate EVM Asia and AgriX alongside Smart Nation Expo. This unique combination brings together digital innovations from critical sectors –

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urban development, sustainable mobility, and agriculture, creating a comprehensive ecosystem of digital progress,” said Tan Sri Nasir.

Three major summits will run concurrently with the exhibition: the Digital Economy Leaders' Summit, Asia Smart Cities Summit, and EVM Asia Summit. These strategic forums connect solution providers with decision-makers and innovators with investors, fostering meaningful discussions about the future of digital transformation in the region.

In addition to these high-level summits, attendees can participate in over 50 tech seminars. Covering topics from 5G technology to AI and smart city solutions, these seminars provide an in-depth look at the transformative power of technology in enhancing connectivity, improving urban living, and driving industrial growth.

Minister Gobind Singh Deo emphasised the broader implications of Malaysia's digital journey. “Our vision at the Ministry of Digital Malaysia isn't just about adopting new technologies - it's about transforming lives. We're pursuing digital excellence not as an end in itself, but as a means to create a more inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable Malaysia,” added YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo.

A highlight of the opening ceremony was the announcement of Data Centre SEA, a strategic new segment launching at Smart Nation Expo 2025. This addition will address the region's growing demand for advanced data infrastructure, focusing on cutting-edge developments in data management, storage, and cloud computing solutions.

Smart Nation Expo 2024 is strongly supported by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, alongside MDEC. MyCEB's role as a central hub in assisting meeting and event planners has been instrumental in bringing international business events to Malaysia. Their dedication to national product development and commitment to serving both local and international organisers exemplifies how business events serve as catalysts for socio-economic growth, uplifting professional and local communities across Malaysia.

Smart Nation Expo 2024, themed "Smart Innovations for Digital Transformation," runs from November 19-21, 2024, at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur. Industry professionals and business leaders are invited to be part of this transformative experience that promises to reshape the digital landscape of Malaysia and the broader ASEAN region.