KULAI: The success of the Kulai Fast Lane and the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) by the Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu) should be emulated by other local authorities to improve service quality.

Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar said it was one of the reform initiatives that can improve the delivery system for both the public and investors.

He noted that work cultures that take a long time to process applications could cause Malaysia to lag behind neighbouring countries such as Thailand and Singapore.

"The innovation and renewal implemented by MPKu through the Kulai Fast Lane programme should inspire other local authorities.

"I hope this effort will continue and be empowered with the latest technology, such as AI, to speed up the approval process and increase Malaysia's competitiveness as an international investment destination," he said.

Shamsul Azri said this at a press conference after a working visit to MPKu headquarters on Saturday (Aug 17).

Johor State Secretary Tan Sri Dr Azmi Rohani was also present during the visit.

Kulai Fast Lane is a fast and efficient service delivery system for processing physical development applications, including the process before plan approval, plan approval, Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC), and the issuance of an operating licence.

During the visit, Shamsul Azri was briefed on the programme's significant achievements, which have helped Kulai see a 171% increase in investment, now amounting to RM45bil.

The investments have also successfully created 7,000 highly skilled job opportunities, contributing to local socio-economic development.

Shamsul Azri added that the Kulai Fast Lane has proven its effectiveness in speeding up the construction permit approval process and giving confidence to investors through transparent and efficient services.

"I am very impressed with MPKu's achievements through the Kulai Fast Lane programme because the work process can be accelerated, attracting more investors to Johor.

"I will always promote MPKu's success to other local councils to improve our services for investors, as demanded by the Prime Minister," he said.

In June, data from the World Competitiveness Center by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) showed Malaysia falling to 34th from its 27th spot in 2023.

The ranking puts Malaysia lower than Thailand (25th) and Indonesia (27th) but higher than the Philippines (52nd).

In Southeast Asia, Malaysia has fallen four places to 10th out of 14 Asia Pacific countries included in the ranking.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/17/kulai-fast-lane-success-should-be-emulated-says-chief-secretary-to-the-government