Kuala Lampur:Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has emphasized the need for innovations developed by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) to deliver tangible benefits to the public. He highlighted that these innovations should focus on saving time and costs, optimizing resources, and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nga pointed out that there is significant potential for innovation within the KPKT, which manages crucial areas such as housing, local government, cleanliness and solid waste management, fire and rescue services, and urban planning. These areas have a direct influence on people's daily lives.
Nga expressed his hope that the culture of innovation among KPKT personnel will be continuously reinforced and extended, ensuring that innovation becomes a fundamental aspect of public service, transcending competitions. He made these remarks during his speech at the 2026 Ministry of Housing and Local Government Innovation Day (HIKPKT 2026).
He also urged the ministry to expand and replicate successful innovations to maximize their benefits. To encourage this culture, Nga announced a reward equivalent to one month's ministerial salary for KPKT personnel who win the Prime Minister's Innovation Award.
HIKPKT 2026, themed 'Memperkasa Inovasi, Memacu Prestasi, Menyejahtera Rakyat', featured 54 innovation projects. Among these were 43 Innovative and Creative Group (KIK) projects and 11 Minister's Innovation Award (AIM) projects.
During the event, the Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) achieved outstanding results in the AIM competition. Their BM Fighter team secured first place with the Checkpoint Tracker project, while the Sungai Bakap Strategic team was the runner-up. JBPM director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah explained that the Checkpoint Tracker aids rescue teams in locating lost individuals in forests, thus reducing search times, operational costs, and personnel requirements.
The system employs GPS technology, an SOS emergency feature, and a Progressive Web App (PWA). Hikers are required to scan a QR code before entering forested areas, allowing their location and movements to be tracked.
Additionally, the Puchong Fire and Rescue Station's chief, Muhammad Azizul Hakim Idris, shared insights about his team's innovation, Rescue Flex. This innovation, which earned first place in the Department and Agency KIK category, integrates three functions to address neck, arm, and leg injuries. It streamlines operations by reducing the equipment needed during emergencies, including accident responses and search-and-rescue missions. Muhammad Azizul highlighted the challenge of developing a high-impact, low-cost idea and credited the entire team for the success of Rescue Flex.