FCRI Takes Centre Stage at Cities Climate Connect 2026, Showcasing AI-Powered Solutions for the Cities of Tomorrow

The Future Cities Research Institute (FCRI), Sunway University, proudly strengthened its role as a thought leader in sustainable urban innovation through its participation in Cities Climate Connect 2026, the flagship conference organised by the Malaysia Green Building Council (malaysiaGBC). Held in Kuala Lumpur on 12-13 August 2026, the event convened policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and practitioners to explore solutions for building resilient, sustainable and future-ready cities.

 

Representing FCRI, Prof. Ir. Dr. Rosdiadee Nordin, Co-Director of FCRI, delivered a keynote address during the Future Cities Forum titled"Connected Cities: AI and Real-Time Urban Systems - From Urban Sensing to Intelligent City Response". His presentation highlighted how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital twins, advanced sensing networks and next-generation wireless communications are reshaping the way cities operate, adapt and thrive.

 

A key highlight of the session was the showcase of Sunway City as a Living Laboratory and the Sunway City Digital Twin, demonstrating how data-driven technologies can support smarter urban planning, sustainable infrastructure and evidence-based decision-making.

 

Prof. Rosdiadee also highlighted FCRI's ongoing efforts in developing digital infrastructure for future city operations, including LoRaWAN sensing networks, net-zero building management systems and AI-enabled urban intelligence platforms. These initiatives demonstrate how academic research can be translated into impactful solutions that support smarter governance, operational efficiency and sustainable city growth.

 

The keynote concluded with a powerful message: a connected city is not defined by the number of sensors it deploys, but by its ability to learn, decide and respond responsibly to real-world challenges. 

 

FCRI's participation at Cities Climate Connect 2026 reflects the institute's ongoing commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research, fostering industry collaboration and driving innovation that addresses real-world urban challenges.