The Smart Nation Expo 2023, which begins today until Thursday, serves as an important platform for the introduction of new digital technologies and solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Web 4.0.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said this is because the digital economy has become one of the fastest-growing industries and largest contributors to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“It currently contributes 22.6 per cent to Malaysia’s GDP and is expected to rise to 25.5 per cent by 2025,” he said at the launching ceremony of the expo here today.
His speech text was read out by Deputy Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, who represented him at the event.
Fadillah, who is also the Agriculture and Commodity Minister, said to support the digital transformation agenda, the government has also introduced the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and the 4th New Industrial Master Plan to create high-paying jobs and business opportunities for Malaysians.
“With our 5G network rollout on track to achieve its target of 80 per cent network coverage in populated areas by year-end, all sectors of the economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, financial services, building, healthcare, transport, security, education, and government services, will be able to accelerate their digital transformation programmes,” he added.
Held concurrently with the EVM Asia Expo, an exhibition on electrified vehicles, mobility, manufacturing and auto parts, Fadillah also expressed his confidence that the event will be able to foster new partnerships and generate investments in the region.
Showcasing 584 exhibitors from 23 countries, the expo will feature smart technologies for key sectors of the economy including government, agriculture, manufacturing, transport and e-mobility, education, healthcare, building, energy, security and communications.
During the three-day event, over 500 delegates and 38 speakers will attend the Digital Economy Leaders’ Summit, the Asia Smart Cities Summit and the Asia Electric Vehicles and Mobility Forum to get up to speed on the latest developments in the digital and e-mobility arenas.
In addition, 1,000 attendees are expected at the 66 tech talks held concurrently with the expo, while more than 100 business-matching sessions have been arranged to facilitate business between local and international companies.
AMB Tarsus Events Group is the organiser of the event and has partnered with several ministries, including the Science, Technology, and Innovations Ministry, the Communications and Digital Ministry and the Local Government Development Ministry.
The expo has support from agencies such as the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), and the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics, and IoT Institute (MARii).
Source: BERNAMA News Agency