Malaysia is looking to deepen cooperation with Azerbaijan in the development of “smart cities” and “smart villages,” signaling growing international interest in the country’s ambitious urban transformation projects.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Malaysian Minister of Housing and Local Government and current president of the UN-Habitat Assembly, Nga Kor Ming, said Kuala Lumpur sees strong potential for collaboration with Azerbaijan in building intelligent and sustainable regions, The Caspian Post reports via Report.

“We are encouraged and excited to see Azerbaijan moving in this direction, and we would certainly like to be part of this process,” the minister said.

Nga Kor Ming said that smart cities represent the future, especially as countries move toward carbon-neutral economies.

“A smart city is exactly the solution that is needed,” he noted, adding that Malaysia aims to become an AI-driven nation by 2035.

The minister stressed that the door remains open for long-term cooperation between the two friendly nations in areas tied to digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable urban planning.

He also welcomed strategic partnerships that can help create more resilient and sustainable cities, in line with this year’s central theme at WUF13.

Nga Kor Ming praised Azerbaijan’s ongoing efforts to improve living standards and expand access to quality housing, expressing hope that the country will continue serving as a model for sustainable development.

“We hope Azerbaijan will continue to set an example in improving people’s well-being and building more dignified and affordable housing so that everyone can truly call it home and turn their dreams into reality,” he added.