MALAYSIA URBAN OBSERVATORY TO BOOST URBAN PLANNING - NGA

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia Urban Observatory (MUO) Analytics Centre, a data-driven platform aimed at advancing evidence-based urban planning through big data and analytics, was officially launched today to enhance urban development practices.

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the introduction of MUO demonstrates the ministry's commitment to enhancing urban planning governance and operations, through comprehensive big data planning.

MUO is a data-driven monitoring platform, which supports an evidence-based planning approach.

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“It employs Geographic Information System (GIS) and Big Data technology to combine multiple data sources, delivering precise, rapid, and comprehensive solutions for urban development," he said during the MUO Analytics Centre event in Putrajaya.

The system was completed ahead of schedule, and the focus in 2025 will be on refining and testing the system, alongside updating data to ensure seamless operation, with accurate and up-to-date information.

The system comprises 10 main modules and 72 submodules, with data infrastructure supported by the public sector data centre, National Digital Department.

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Thus far, 34 government and private agencies have collaborated on data sharing, including the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the Ministry of Works, the Forestry Department of Peninsular Malaysia, the Housing Planning Division of KPKT, and other key agencies.

“This system currently hosts over 200 types of data in various formats and has generated 80 analytical dashboards. Of these, 25 per cent represent high-value analytics, including predictive and prescriptive analytics, which are set to significantly enhance urban planning and governance by making them more precise and proactive,” he explained.

“This means that every planning decision can now be based on comprehensive analytics and accurate information, leading to faster resolution of urban challenges, and improved efficiency in public service delivery,” he added.

Meanwhile, Nga disclosed that his ministry, through PLANMalaysia, had drafted the Urban Renewal Bill (RUU PSB), which is expected to be tabled for its first reading in Parliament in March 2025.

“The ministry also plans to introduce amendments to the Town and Country Planning Act, 1976 (Act 172) in Parliament next year, aiming to streamline and strengthen the urban planning and development process,” he said.

-- BERNAMA