Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1539233
6 COMMERCIAL maltatoday | SUNDAY • 7 SEPTEMBER 2025 Enhancing built and shared infrastructure in Malta: The role of AI and technology DURING the EY Future Re- alised conference last year, we explored the potential of shared infrastructure ideas in Malta and highlighted the necessity for innovative ap- proaches to urban planning and resource management. Well-functioning infrastruc- ture is the backbone of society, supporting how people work and live. However, the infra- structure industry faces un- precedented pressures in the coming decades, including cli- mate change, urban expansion, economic uncertainty, labour shortages, and supply chain disruptions. These challenges demand innovative solutions and significant investment. An estimated US$139 trillion in sustainable infrastructure in- vestment is required globally to move towards net zero by 2050, while US$94 trillion must be invested by 2040 to close exist- ing gaps and align with future economic changes. Malta's infrastructure has evolved over the years, yet it faces numerous challenges, including congestion, aging fa- cilities, and limited resources. The existing built infrastruc- ture, while functional, often struggles to meet the demands of a growing population and increasing economic activity. The integration of shared in- frastructure concepts is crucial for addressing these challeng- es, allowing for more efficient use of resources and better ur- ban planning. Meeting these challenges head-on requires a new ap- proach to delivering projects faster, more cost-effectively, and with assets that operate more sustainably to support future needs. The growth of AI offers a transformative pathway to address this. Its transformative power has the potential to provide solutions and be a true enabler of change by breaking down barriers be- tween stakeholders, reducing costs, and expediting delivery. The Role of AI in Infrastruc- ture Development While the sector has started to adopt AI in pockets, it must embrace AI industry-wide to drive urgently needed trans- formation. In a bid to provide direction to the industry, an EY team and the International Federation of Consulting En- gineers (FIDIC) have collab- orated on a new report that takes a deep dive into the op- portunities that AI brings to the sector. The report, "How Artificial Intelligence Can Un- lock a New Future for Infra- structure," explores key trends and challenges to AI adoption and how AI-enabled technol- ogies can optimize planning, design, construction, and asset management across an asset's lifecycle. By taking an innova- tive stance, the sector can truly transform how it delivers and operates infrastructure. AI technologies can process vast datasets, uncover hidden patterns, predict potential is- sues, and optimize resources across interconnected project phases. By breaking down bar- riers and bridging gaps across stakeholder groups and project phases, AI enables collabora- tion across the lifecycle, facil- itating better decision-making, outcomes, and more sustaina- ble infrastructure. As part of our research, we have identified three business models that embody the oppor- tunities that AI brings to create whole-of-industry responses: • Integrated platform mod- el: Connect stakeholders through the widespread adoption and integration of various data platforms. These platforms should offer infrastructure ser- vices, data management, analytics, and other func- tionalities enabling seam- less data sharing and joint development of AI mod- els. • Data monetization mod- el: Get value from data resources and turn them into tangible business outcomes. This can be through direct revenue generation or improving operational efficiency, with key industry stake- holders aggregating and monetizing high-quality infrastructure data. • Contract incentivization model: Encourage other stakeholders to adopt AI during project develop- ment stages. This may include adjusting tender scoring criteria to prior- itize innovation and AI adoption and incorporat- ing rewards for achieving common strategic goals in major program con- tracts. Benefits include cross-project collabora- tion, leveraging collective insights, driving efficien- cies, optimizing resource allocation, and aligning stakeholder communica- tion. • For the successful inte- gration of these models, industry professionals need to adapt their mind- set, skillset, and toolset: • Mindset: Cultivate an open and collaborative environment. This in- volves raising awareness, fostering discussions, and addressing legal and ethical considerations to build confidence and en- courage sharing of data and insights. • Skillset: Develop the competencies required to leverage AI in infra- structure. This includes providing training, certi- fications, and workshops that equip professionals with the knowledge and expertise to integrate AI technologies effectively and keep the infrastruc- ture industry attractive to future generations. • Toolset: Offer the right tools and frameworks for practical implementa- tion. This toolset involves developing standardized data collection methods, secure data-sharing pro- tocols, and AI-specific contract provisions that support innovation and collaboration. Looking ahead In Malta, adopting AI in in- frastructure projects could lead to more efficient construction practices, ultimately resulting in better-quality buildings and public spaces. Technology can also help us address some of our local challenges. For example, smart infrastructure, powered by the Internet of Things (IoT), enables real-time monitoring and management of resources. Traffic management systems equipped with sensors and AI algorithms can optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance road safety. Data analytics plays a crucial role in this transformation, al- lowing us to enhance the func- tionality of our infrastructure and ensuring it meets the needs of its citizens effectively. Effective private and public sector engagement is essential for fostering collaboration in infrastructure development. By bringing together government entities, private companies, and community stakeholders, Malta can create a more in- clusive approach to infrastruc- ture planning and execution. Technology can facilitate this collaboration by providing platforms for communication, data sharing, and project man- agement. The infrastructure industry stands at a critical juncture. By embracing AI and fostering collaboration across the entire ecosystem, it can unlock AI's full potential to address the immense challenges it faces. It is time to usher in a new era of innovation and efficiency in infrastructure development and management, ensuring well-functioning infrastructure continues to be the backbone of society, supporting how peo- ple work and live in an increas- ingly complex world. Our upcoming EY Future Re- alised event will be held on 22 October 2025 at the Medi- terranean Conference Centre. We look forward to exploring innovative ideas impacting our infrastructure at the con- ference.