Malaysia: Malaysia is keen to strengthen regional cooperation in urban search and rescue (USAR) preparedness and the responsible application of technology, particularly through knowledge-sharing with ASEAN and ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) partners.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) deputy secretary-general (Housing and Urban Wellbeing) Zulkeflee Sulaiman emphasized that regional cooperation is essential as disasters do not respect borders and no country has all the answers. Zulkeflee expressed Malaysia's eagerness to share experiences while learning from ASEAN and ARF partners to enhance USAR preparedness and the responsible application of technology.
Zulkeflee highlighted that the first few hours following an urban disaster are critical, requiring responders to quickly locate trapped victims, assess risks, determine safe access, and deploy limited resources effectively. He noted that agencies must coordinate operations under pressure, often with incomplete information, making emerging technologies increasingly relevant to emergency response efforts.
Artificial intelligence (AI), drones, remote sensing, geospatial technologies, and robotics can strengthen situational awareness, accelerate information processing, identify risks, and support better operational decisions. Importantly, these technologies enhance responder safety and help reach affected communities faster.
For Malaysia, Zulkeflee said that the approach aligns with the country's broader commitment to strengthening disaster risk reduction. The 13th Malaysia Plan (2026-2030) places greater emphasis on risk-informed planning, resilience, and preparedness at national, state, and local levels. KPKT, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, and other agencies, continues to strengthen the country's preparedness, urban resilience, and emergency response capabilities.
Zulkeflee emphasized that technology alone does not save lives; people, preparedness, and coordination do. AI must be supported by skilled responders, reliable data, interoperable systems, clear command and control, and strong cooperation among agencies and countries.
The seminar, co-hosted by China, Laos, and Malaysia from September 17 to 21 under the theme 'Artificial Intelligence Empowering Urban Emergency Rescue', features discussions and practical activities on the use of AI and emerging technologies in USAR. It brings together emergency management authorities, experts, and practitioners from ASEAN member states and ARF participants.