GEORGE TOWN, May 6 — The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has identified 167 trees requiring urgent attention using a new satellite and artificial intelligence-powered monitoring system.
Mayor Rajendran P Anthony said the trees were among 3,736 flagged under the “Smart Sight Trees” initiative, covering 12,531 trees across 44 sq km in the northeast district.
Developed by local firm Spacegen at a cost of RM988,000, the system analyses satellite imagery to detect changes in leaf colour and canopy health, achieving up to 94% accuracy.
Rajendran said inspections remain essential despite AI support, with 31 high-risk trees already assessed and action taken. MBPP prioritises public safety, with five trees replanted for every tree removed.
The council recorded 1,484 tree-related incidents last year, with ageing trees and urban development impacting root stability.
The system is expected to continue beyond its pilot phase, enhancing efficiency and enabling faster, data-driven interventions to reduce risks across the island.
