Technology set to shape smart city development in Miri
MIRI: The future development of this city will be shaped by selective usage of technology in its administration and management following Monday’s launch of ‘Miri Smart City — Proof of Concept’.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg who officiated at the launching ceremony in a leading hotel here expressed confidence that the smart-city development could close the gaps between the city council and city dwellers.
During a press conference held after the launch, Abang Johari said the establishment of an integrated and multi-technology testbed for IoT (Internet of Things) to create a smart city will be used as a case study on the effectiveness of technology to provide good services to the people.
Abang Johari said Miri is the first smart city in the state and if the concept was proven to be efficient it would be extended to other major cities in Sarawak.
“We might extend the applications to other cities in Sarawak when it is clear that they can help the city council improve people’s lives. We will start with Kuching, followed by Sibu and Bintulu,” he said.
“As of today, all applications used by Miri City Council (MCC) have positive feedback. Congratulations to the council for having established the system,” he said.
Abang Jo observed that the system is very effective in delivering services to the people.
To drive home his point, he spoke about how one of the smart city’s panic buttons installed at Taman Bulatan Miri helped saved the life of a man last December 29.
That particular incident elaborated in a video presentation during the launching ceremony caused Abang Johari to express amazement at the effectiveness of the system.
In the incident, the man fainted while jogging in the park. He was lucky that other joggers who saw him immediately pressed a panic button to call for an ambulance. The quick action saved his life.
Also at the launching ceremony, Transport Minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin presented a master plan (2021-2030) for greater Miri development.
Abang Johari then presented mock cheques for a total of RM3 million to Miri Red Crescent Dialysis (RM2 million), and Miri Chinese Charitable Trust Board-Miri Tua Pek Kong (RM1 million).
Also present at the ceremony were State Secretary Datuk Amar Jaul Samion; Lee; Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian; Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing Datu Dr Penguang Manggil; Assistant Minister of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Datuk Rosey Yunus; Sibuti Member of Parliament Lukanisman Awang Sauni; Lambir assemblyman Ripin Lamat; and Miri City Mayor Adam Yii.
