Kota Kinabalu: City Hall (DBKK) formalised a strategic collaboration with the Malaysian Space Agency (Mysa) to harness satellite data and geospatial analytics for faster, more accurate urban governance.
Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (pic) said this marks a strategic step for DBKK to transition from traditional operations towards becoming a data-driven city.
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“We are shifting from a reactive approach—responding after events occur—to a predictive, proactive and data-based governance model grounded in accurate and up-to-date information,” he said during the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between DBKK and Mysa, Tuesday.
He explained that the partnership allows DBKK to leverage Mysa’s expertise in remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to build integrated spatial databases and digital applications that support decision-making.
“This technology will be applied specifically in four main areas – more structured urban planning, earlier and more accurate disaster management, continuous environmental monitoring and more effective enforcement,” he said.
Joniston, who is also the Minister responsible for DBKK, stressed that the initiative strengthens Kota Kinabalu’s position within Malaysia’s broader smart city agenda, aligning with national priorities on digital governance and sustainability.
Additionally, he said the initiative reinforces the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ 2.0) roadmap that places innovation and digitalisation at the centre of public service transformation.
“When data is used strategically, we not only improve operational efficiency, but, more importantly, enhance the quality of life of our people,” he added.
With DBKK already recognised as a Smart City Early Adopter, he said the MoU aims to steer the city’s evolution into one where data is not just collected, but actively used to improve outcomes for its residents.
“The four key benefits we aim to achieve are faster and more accurate services, more efficient urban management, improved public safety and well-being, and more sustainable urban planning. This is the true value we seek to deliver to the people of Kota Kinabalu.
“I am confident that Kota Kinabalu will advance further as a smart city that is not only modern, but also sustainable, resilient and future-oriented,” he said.
Also present were Mayor Datuk Seri Sabin Samitah, Mysa Director General Datuk Gs Azlikamil Napiah, Mysa Strategic Application Department Director Kamaruzzaman Wahid and DBKK Director-General Datuk Lifred Wong.
