MP13: Use Of Technology To Drive Economic Transformation

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 (Bernama) --  The use of technology was a key focus of debate in the Dewan Negara today following the tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan (MP13), which is seen as a major driver in enhancing the country’s competitiveness by 2030.

Senator Datuk Ros Suryati Alang said MP13,  themed “Reshaping Development”, not only emphasised economic growth based on the principles of Malaysia MADANI, but also created broad opportunities for digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), automation and green technology to strengthen the nation’s global standing.

“The use of drones, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics and biotechnology is no longer optional but a necessity. These measures will boost productivity, reduce reliance on foreign labour and make the palm oil industry more sustainable and competitive,” she said when debating the motion on MP13.

She added that the technology would not only benefit the palm oil and agriculture industries but would also open new opportunities in other sectors, including smart city development and logistics.

Similarly, Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim also proposed that the government allocate special funds under MP13 to strengthen the country's water and border control capabilities through the use of smart drone technology

He said such an approach would improve monitoring of high-risk areas and safeguard national sovereignty against aggression and cross-border crime.

He emphasised that drones now play an essential role in modern defence systems, allowing comprehensive and continuous surveillance without requiring the physical presence of security forces in remote areas.

Meanwhile, Senator Datuk Seri S. Vell Paari suggested that the government allocate special funds under MP13 to advance health technology, particularly in virtual reality (VR), as part of reforms to the country’s healthcare system.

He said VR technology has become one of the key innovations in the global medical sector, with its use becoming increasingly widespread in hospitals in the United States for trauma treatment, physical therapy and surgical training.

“The world is witnessing the rapid adoption of VR in healthcare. The government must pay attention to this. Malaysia cannot afford to be left behind. The 13th Malaysia Plan should allocate special funding for VR Healthcare Innovation to ensure our people benefit from this technology,” he said.

Vell Paari also referred to a South Florida Business Journal report in August 2025, which highlighted that VR technology not only accelerates trauma treatment but also helps reduce costs and enhances the effectiveness of medical training.

The Dewan Negara sitting continues tomorrow

-- BERNAMA