SMART CITY IN ASEAN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW TOWARD THEORY, TRENDS, AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to review smart city studies in the ASEAN region.   Theoretical Framework: This study has determined that using the theory of change is essential for constructing smart cities in ASEAN members.   Method: A bibliometric analysis and systematic literature review were done to elucidate the theories, challenges, and trends underlying the 156 full-text articles acquired from Scopus, a comprehensive database of scholarly publications.   Results and Discussion: The investigation also uncovers a significant point of convergence between capitalists and eco-culturalists, suggesting a potential for collaboration developing smart cities. Parliamentarians are currently being directed to give priority to the preservation of the environment and cultural heritage. This study offers a pragmatic rationale for cyber security stakeholders to actively participate in improving data privacy in smart city projects because the government needs them to establish guiding principles that may effectively reconcile the demand for data in developing efficient smart cities with the essential task of protecting the data privacy of their inhabitants.   Research Implications: This study implies that bureaucracies should develop a change management strategy to efficiently facilitate the development of smart cities within their jurisdiction. The executive administration is advised to prioritize the essential duty of soliciting investment from investors to expedite the advancement of smart cities. Cybersecurity professionals are also encouraged to enhance public awareness of technological breakthroughs to optimize the advantages of smart cities for the general public.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by reviewing smart city manuscripts in a few-studied region of Southeast Asia using a comprehensive literature review approach. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the theories it highlights, along with trends and challenges the practitioners and administration will face.