KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said the State  Government is committed to the digitalisation process because, with the integration of  Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning technologies, the efficiency of service  delivery to the rakyat can be further enhanced. 

"As the Chief Minister of Sabah, my utmost concern is the progress and development of  our state," he said at the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM) Sabah  International Surveyors Congress 2024 at Magellan Sutera, here today. 

Finance Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun delivered his speech. 

"AI is a powerful force reshaping industries and revolutionising how we live and work.  As we stand on the brink of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the integration of Artificial  Intelligence (AI) into various sectors, including land governance, presents  unprecedented opportunities and challenges.  

"In the fields of surveying, property, and construction, it has emerged as a catalyst for  innovation, driving unprecedented levels of efficiency, accuracy, and performance," he  said. 

In this respect, Hajiji urged the surveying profession to lead the way in embracing AI and  machine learning technologies, playing a transformative role in land governance by  improving work efficiency, transparency, decision-making processes, and delivery  systems.  

"By adopting generative AI, surveyors can significantly contribute to the Sabah  government's efforts in formulating, implementing, and managing housing policies,  addressing challenges such as affordable housing, and optimising land use and urban  planning," he said. 

He said the RISM Sabah International Surveyors Congress 2024 theme of "AI and Land  Governance" was apt since AI technology has already profoundly impacted various  aspects of people's daily lives and business operations.  

The Chief Minister said the congress served as an excellent platform for surveyors to  explore and understand the transformative power of AI and Machine Learning.  

"As we embrace AI and technological advancements, it is crucial to integrate sustainable  practices into our land governance strategies. Sustainable land governance ensures that  we manage our land resources responsibly, balancing economic development with  environmental protection and social equity.  

"AI can play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable land governance. By leveraging AI powered tools, we can monitor land use patterns, detect illegal activities, and assess  environmental impacts in real time. This enables us to make informed decisions that  protect our natural resources and promote sustainable development. 

"Moreover, AI can support the conservation of biodiversity by analysing data from  various sources, such as satellite imagery and sensor networks, to monitor wildlife  habitats and track changes in ecosystems.  

"This information is vital for developing effective conservation strategies and mitigating  the impacts of climate change. By integrating AI into our land governance practices, we  can ensure that our development efforts are sustainable, benefiting both current and  future generations," he said. 

Ends