Penang looks towards AI for greater sustainability

Penang, a Malaysian state, is exploring the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance sustainability efforts and combat the impacts of climate change, according to state executive councillor Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo. This initiative marks the first for the state to integrate AI in its sustainability journey. The state has entered into a partnership with the Global Environmental Centre Foundation, a Japanese organization based in Osaka, to share knowledge and promote green initiatives.

During the opening of the annual Penang Green Summit, which is organized by the Penang Green Council, Sundarajoo highlighted the importance of incorporating AI into various aspects of the state's operations, such as the traffic light system, to alleviate worsening traffic congestion. The council has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Japanese foundation to collectively raise awareness about green initiatives among the population.

In a broader context, the director of the environment portfolio, Sundarajoo, emphasized the need to look at Japan's advancements in sustainable practices, particularly in leveraging AI to address climate change. The state has taken a significant step by planning to ban plastic bags and gradually replace them with biodegradable alternatives, which are readily available in the market.