KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 — Experts say that key initiatives in Budget 2025 focusing on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital monitoring systems can enhance transportation infrastructure and improve its overall efficiency.
Universiti Utara Malaysia School of Technology and Logistics Management associate professor Rohafiz Sabar said the budget introduces the development of a smart transportation and logistics ecosystem using cutting-edge technology.
“This includes the use of AI and digital monitoring systems to detect road damage faster, allowing for more efficient maintenance, reducing repair times, and ensuring seamless transportation services.
“The use of such technology is expected to lower operational costs and improve the effectiveness of infrastructure efficiency,” she told Bernama.
Rohafiz added that the government is offering a 60 per cent tax investment incentive for five years to companies adopting IR4.0 technologies to support the logistics industry.
“Automation and smart systems in logistics operations can enhance efficiency and productivity. This step is expected to transform the logistics landscape in Malaysia, making it more competitive and aligned with global technological advancements,” she said.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Institute of Transport director cum Universiti Teknologi Mara associate professor Wan Mazlina Wan Mohamed welcomed the upgrading of 100 bus stops in the Klang Valley through collaborations between government-linked companies and private entities.
“I support this initiative, but it is important to also ensure that the connections to and from these bus stops, known as first-mile and last-mile connectivity, are reliable.
“This means providing infrastructure like bicycle parking, areas for micro-mobility devices (such as e-scooters), and safe, shaded pedestrian walkways equipped with real-time monitoring information about bus services,” she said.
— Bernama
