Editor's Note

"It's so easy for someone with a great idea to share it with the world in an instant. The pace of innovation is accelerating—and that opens up more areas than ever for exploration." - Bill Gates

The global shift towards sustainable approaches has improved business and fundamental human rights. Malaysia urges homegrown companies to adopt the new sustainable regulations to improve their international trade exposure. Thankfully, Malaysia is quick to join the bandwagon, accelerating the adoption of CSR activities, SDGs and many more.

Not only that, digital transformation is becoming a critical support mechanism for countries to reconstruct the economy and sustainable development in SMCs post-pandemic. The transformation of SMCs into digital and sustainable cities necessitates strong cooperation between the city's governmental and private entities and its citizens. Resolving existing issues and reformulating techniques will benefit from coordinated efforts from all areas. Furthermore, future SMCs equipped with employment possibilities, public transit and other accessibility features will positively affect their dwellers' quality of life.

As opportunity-seeking individuals populate megacities, they are transforming into urban sprawl, an unsustainable environment for health and wellness. This issue generates an imbalanced dynamic, as rural areas lack population while the other is overpopulated.

Many proposed changes require continuous commitment and political determination, representing deviations from existing norms. However, the gains for Malaysia would far transcend the expenses as we get the advantages of urbanisation and can establish a system of competitive, sustainable and inclusive cities.

If Malaysia were to develop its small and medium-sized cities with a complete digital transformation, sustainability implementation and expanded possibilities, we would be able to observe its growth as a sustainable country within a few years.

Hence, in this edition of Fourth Leap, we look at shaping SMCs through digital transformation, the technologies and the upheavals that come with a digitally-infused organisation.

Stay tuned as we share the world's progress with you, dear reader, from the keen minds of leaders, scholars, and independent thinkers. We are certain that our contributors will pique your interests and perhaps spark a need to connect and have a conversation. So feel free to reach out to us, and happy reading! 

Sritharan Vellasamy

sri@wordlabs.com.my