ASEAN Smart City Network Cooperation for Digital Inclusion: A Comparative Study of Indonesia and Malaysia

Abstract

The ASEAN Smart City Network (ASCN) represents a significant regional initiative aimed at harnessing technology and innovation to drive sustainable urban development. This study conducts a comparative analysis of ASCN implementation in Indonesia and Malaysia, examining the initiatives at the constitutional, organizational, and operational levels through Hill and Hupe's multi-level governance framework. By analyzing primary policy documents and secondary data sources, the research reveals diverse approaches and priorities between the two countries. Indonesia focuses on empowering MSMEs and enhancing public services through digital platforms, while Malaysia emphasizes urban data management and sustainable transportation. The findings underscore the importance of regional cooperation, national coordination, and local participation in driving smart city progress. The study contributes to the field by offering a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics shaping ASCN implementation in two key ASEAN member states. It generates valuable policy implications and highlights the potential of ASCN as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The comparative lens and multi-level governance framework provide a foundation for future research on smart city development in the rapidly urbanizing ASEAN region.