Inaugural Ceremony of ASEAN Capacity Building Programme at PSCA Headquarters

LAHORE, PAKISTAN: The ASEAN Capacity Building Program was inaugurated at the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) Headquarters, with Provincial Minister for Information Punjab, Uzma Zahid Bukhari, as the Guest of Honour. The ceremony was attended by provincial ministers, Punjab Home Secretary, IG Punjab, representatives from ASEAN member countries, MD Safe Cities Authority Muhammad Ahsan Younis, Chief Operating Officer, and senior officials.

During the event, MD Safe Cities Authority Muhammad Ahsan Younis briefed attendees on the objectives, operational framework, and advanced technologies of the Smart Safe City project, highlighting the use of Artificial Intelligence, smart analytics, and modern monitoring systems to enhance urban security and public safety.

Provincial Minister Uzma Zahid Bukhari described the Smart Safe City project as a revolutionary step in urban security, stating that protecting citizens’ lives and property is a top priority of the Punjab government. She emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, Safe Cities are laying the foundation for modern and secure urban centers, and that AI-driven smart city technologies are projecting Pakistan’s positive image globally.

IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar noted that digital policing, smart analytics, and advanced monitoring systems have significantly improved crime prevention, with the AI model serving as a benchmark for major cities across Pakistan.

The conference included specialized sessions on AI-based policing, smart surveillance, and smart traffic management, featuring live demonstrations and international best practices. Global experts recognized PSCA’s facial recognition, predictive policing modules, and alert systems as state-of-the-art.

According to PSCA, the programme will strengthen technological cooperation between Pakistan and ASEAN countries and promote global collaboration through the exchange of advanced security solutions. The conference will continue from November 17 to 21, 2025.

Attendees included Provincial Minister and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Law & Order Khawaja Salman Rafique, Provincial Minister for Industry & Trade Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, Home Secretary Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi, IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar, ASEAN representatives, international experts, and senior officials.