Comparative review of Smart City from an urban planning perspective in Johor Bahru City and Petaling Jaya City

Abstract

Smart cities are of great importance globally, and Malaysia recognizes this importance. The Malaysian government has launched various initiatives to encourage the ‘Smart City’ such as the framework (Malaysia Smart City Framework), blueprints, action plans, and standard, the Malaysian Standard for Smart Cities. The outlines the definitions, key principles, and strategies for adopting smart cities in Malaysia’s development. This study aimed to contribute to the understanding of smart city development in Malaysia and provide valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and researchers in their efforts to create sustainable and efficient cities. The objective of this study is to compare the approaches and outcomes of smart city development between Johor Bahru City, Johor, and Petaling Jaya City, Selangor. This has analyzed and comprehended the trends in various features of smart city development of the cities. The study found that Johor Bahru City is making more efforts to develop as a smart city through effective governance and strategic planning for short-term and long-term goals same as Petaling Jaya City but focuses more on a one-stop center which promotes community togetherness with the governance. Nevertheless, at the regional level, Johor Bahru City has the Iskandar Malaysia Smart City Framework promoting Sustainable Smart City Vision, followed by the Johor Smart City Blueprint at the state level, and implemented via blueprints at the local authorities, which sets it apart from Petaling Jaya City. Both cities have well-planned smart city initiatives that integrate technology, energy, and the environment, including support for smart city components that suit their needs. Despite facing challenges, the city serves as a model for smart and sustainable development.