SMC assures innovation must always remain people-centred

SIBU: Innovation must deliver tangible improvements to residents’ daily lives as Sibu progresses towards becoming a smarter, more resilient and inclusive city.

Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh said technological advancement alone did not define a smart city, with innovation ultimately needing to serve the people.

“A smart city is not defined by how advanced our technology is, but by how well it improves everyday life,” he said at the SMC Innovation cum Customer’s Day 2026 at Wisma Sanyan here today (Oct 3).

Ting said Sibu was adopting a more people-centred approach to smart-city development, focusing on practical improvements such as safer streets for children, better accessibility for senior citizens and more efficient public services.

He said SMC’s Smart City Action Plan was aligned with its commitment as a Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI) Candidate City and its participation in the Age-Friendly Cities and Communities (AFCC) Network.

“These commitments reflect our belief that innovation must always remain people-centred,” he said.

Among the initiatives highlighted was the Sibu Child Council, which provides children with a platform to voice their views and participate in discussions concerning their community.

Efforts are also being made to improve accessibility for senior citizens, encourage active ageing and ensure they remain connected to the community.

Ting said digitalisation, smart systems and data-driven decision-making should also make council services faster, simpler and more transparent.

“Every innovation must make life easier for our people. It is about solving real problems, improving real lives and building a city that works for everyone,” he said.

He added that Sibu’s transformation required cooperation among the council, government agencies, partners and the community.

“Together, we can build a Sibu that is not only smart, but resilient, inclusive and full of heart,” he said.

The event featured an innovation showcase, council booths, a commercial crime awareness talk by the Royal Malaysia Police, competitions, games and other activities aimed at strengthening engagement between SMC and the public.