PLUS, MaGIC initiative to explore highway tech

KUALA LUMPUR: The Smart Highway Sandbox programme was launched yesterday as a medium for innovation in integrating technology with the highway network in the country.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said the initiative was to speed up innovation in highway maintenance through technology.

“This strategic cooperation was forged to ensure that PLUS moves in tandem with the government’s desire to empower the Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR4.0) by using high-precision technology that is also efficient in the management of highway maintenance in Malaysia,” he said.

The programme is a Plus Malaysia Bhd (PLUS) initiative, together with the Malaysian Global Innovation and Creativity Centre (MaGIC), as the secretariat representing the National Technology and Innovation Sandbox.

He said the smart highway was a concept that integrated various Internet of Things devices that would enhance the efficiency of transportation, driver and pedestrian safety, and sustainability.

“Malaysia should grab this opportunity to venture into new technology, especially local talents,” he said.

The signing of the memorandum of understanding between PLUS and MaGIC, which is an agency under the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry, was witnessed by Dr Adham.