Kuala lumpur: The use of digital technologies such as geospatial, drone mapping, and artificial intelligence (AI) should be leveraged by land administrators to enhance field monitoring efficiency. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup emphasised that the aspects of upholding the rule of law and societal harmony are fundamental in land administration in this country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kurup highlighted the importance of orderly, prudent, and inclusive land use management. "The use of digital technologies such as geospatial, drone mapping and AI should be optimised," he stated during the 10th National Land Day 2026 celebration organised by the Department of the Director General of Federal Lands and Mines (JKPTG).

Present at the event were the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRES) secretary-general Datuk Anis Rizana Mohd Zainudin and JKPTG director-general Datuk Mohd Fauzi Mohd Yatim. Kurup also underscored the significance of preserving heritage land, including the Malay Reserve Land in Peninsular Malaysia and Native Customary Rights land in Sabah and Sarawak.

"The federal government and state authorities are always committed to ensuring that heritage land is managed transparently, orderly, and based on the applicable legal framework," he mentioned. Kurup stressed that any urgent development needs should adhere to the law, ensuring fair and just considerations to preserve the rights and historical value of the land.

He elaborated that land is foundational to national sovereignty, food security, and economic prosperity for Malaysians. "The federal government remains committed to strengthening the national land administration system. We aspire to develop modern, transparent, and integrity-based land governance grounded in digitalisation to enhance the efficiency of public service delivery," he asserted.

Kurup expressed appreciation to JKPTG for establishing five Main Commitments as the Resolution for the 10th National Land Day Celebration in 2026. These commitments aim to sustain excellence in land administration, including strengthening land protection through stricter SOPs for encroachment actions and improvements to the Land Acquisition Act 1960 [Act 486].

"I believe the resolution will be a key pillar and a driving force for the direction of the national land administration towards a more organised, robust and progressive future," he concluded.