Pahang to set up AI tech zone, says state exco
State Investment, Industries, Science, Technology and Innovation Committee chairman Datuk Mohamad Nizar Najib said the zone, to be located in the state capital here, will offer special incentives through the Invest Pahang platform to encourage high-tech companies to establish operations in the state.
"The Pahang high technology zone is specifically aimed for companies in AI, automation and big data. Its exact location in Kuantan will be announced in due course.
"This dedicated zone is expected to draw AI companies to this part of the country, apart from the Klang Valley. These companies will become part of the AI ecosystem and contribute to the development of start-ups across Pahang," he said at the Pahang Skills Development Centre here today.
Earlier, Nizar launched and closed the AI for Productivity Transformation and Speed Grid-Connected Photovoltaic programme at the centre in Semambu.
Present were Yayasan Peneraju chief executive officer Ibrahim Sani and Pahang Skills chairman Datuk Mas'ut Awang Samah.
He said the Pahang high technology zone was part of a long-term strategy to drive digital transformation, strengthen the economy and improve public services and quality of life in the state.
"AI is no longer optional. It is essential. Today's business environment demands automation, intelligent analytics and the ability to make faster and more accurate decisions.
"At the federal level, we already have the National AI Office in place.
"Among other initiatives in Pahang, we are also establishing the AI data centre, which will serve as a new digital platform for marketing local agricultural products both domestically and internationally.
"The centre is scheduled to begin operations in January next year.
"Under the Smart Pahang initiative, Kuantan, Temerloh, Pekan and Bentong have been selected as pilot locations for the Smart City project.
This includes the use of smart cameras for traffic and security monitoring, AI-powered solid waste management systems and flood and air quality monitoring using AI technology."
Nizar said the state government was committed to expanding AI use in public administration, education, agriculture and tourism.
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