Iskandar Malaysia’s mobility system both crossing into Singapore and throughout the rest of the region, is experiencing substantial levels of congestion. The current inefficiencies of the mobility system are a cause of concern, economically, environmentally and socially. High reliance on private motorised transport infringes on productivity due to time and money lost travelling and moving goods. Greenhouse gas emissions, particulate matter, air, and noise pollution are creating a stressful and unhealthy urban environment. Although Iskandar Malaysia is heavily investing in public transport, for example through the introduction of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and the development of a mobility planner application, the need remains to optimise the road network. To prevent the continuation of road expansions, traffic needs to be managed and planned more effectively. In response to these needs, a Smart Integrated Mobility Management System (SIMMS) will be developed. The proposed SIMMS will be designed to serve as a key foundation for a sustainable mobility system in Iskandar Malaysia by supporting day-to-day traffic operations as well as long-term transport planning.

To ensure the effective utilisation of the data collected by SIMMS, as well as other sources, the second component of the project is focused on Creating Enabling Conditions for Data Utilisation and Management for Evidence-based Urban and Transport Planning. Operational management and long-term planning require a reliable database that enables planners to find evidence-based solutions to the urbanisation challenges of the region. This project component will improve capacity in Iskandar Malaysia to use smart technologies and data analysis to inform future spatial and transportation plans. It connects directly with the Iskandar Malaysia Urban Observatory (IMUO) by creating a framework and building the necessary capacity to enable the integrated use of data across sectors and authorities. Through an integrated approach of informing both urban and transport planning, the project aims to be able to tackle issues such as the lack of accessibility and connectivity in the region, which threatens to heighten social exclusion particularly for those who cannot or do not drive.