TM R&D CEO, Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah recently participated at the ASEAN Future Cities Conference 2023 as the keynote speaker and shared insights into how TM R&D is shaping the future of smart cities with technology and innovation. Held at the Berjaya Times Square Hotel Kuala Lumpur, the event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests:
TPr. Dr. Alias Rameli, Director General, PlanMalaysia
Dr. Mazlan Abbas, CEO & Co-Founder, FAVORIOT
En. Fuad Shazly Salleh, VP, Smart City, Technology & Innovation, IRDA
Dr. Sharlene took the audience on a journey from the evolution of mobile connectivity (1G to 5G) to the capabilities of 5G technologies, emphasising the need for smarter connectivity.
While 5G opens numerous possibilities, the challenge of poor signal quality persists. Highlighting solutions like FIRA (Fast Internet for All), Dr. Sharlene emphasised TM R&D’s commitment to efficient connectivity, addressing gaps with innovative problem-solving.
The journey continued with a glimpse into TM R&D’s showcase in Langkawi in the year 2020, where a connected city ecosystem demonstrated how technology enhances safety, efficiency, and customer experience.
As we pave the way for a smarter city in the future, Dr. Sharlene emphasised on:
1️⃣ To create a smarter city, we must infuse smarter connectivity with smarter platforms
2️⃣ Focus on the problem, and not the tech
3️⃣ Invest in R&D and innovation capabilities as technology shall be the single largest risk factor for any nation
4️⃣ MyDigital blueprint: Support home-grown technologies for Malaysia to be a high-income nation and a net exporter of home-grown technologies
