Digitization Factor in Improving Planning Application System Delivery Between Local Authority in Malaysia

Abstract Digitization significantly enhances the efficiency of project delivery in construction by improving decision-making, collaboration, and integrating advanced technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Artificial Intelligence. The Malaysian government has been leveraging digital technologies to streamline the planning application process and to reduce approval times. However, challenges remain, as stakeholders have reported negative feedback due to a lack of a holistic approach in critical areas of the planning application system delivery. This study examines the current implementation of planning application process among local authorities in Malaysia and identifying the factors that drive successful digital transformation. The research method, including surveys and interviews, the study identifies four key components crucial for digital planning applications: Leadership and Governance; Administration, Organization, and Management; Human Capacity, Capability, Culture, and Skills; and Infrastructure, Cyber Security, Privacy, and Resilience. Additionally, eight sub-components were identified as essential for improving digital planning application delivery. The findings highlight that while digitization enhances processing times, data accessibility, and stakeholder engagement, challenges like digital literacy and infrastructure gaps persist. This paper suggests a framework to address these challenges and further leverage digital technology in planning application system delivery.