For decades, property value has been defined by one timeless principle: location, location, location. But in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and robotics, a new factor is entering the equation — AI readiness.
At i-City, Selangor, this idea is no longer theoretical. It is becoming reality through AI Living @ i-City, a groundbreaking development positioned as the world’s first AI residences, designed for a future where humans and intelligent machines coexist seamlessly.
Developed by I-Berhad, the master developer behind Malaysia’s No.1 Digital City, AI Living signals a bold shift in how homes are designed, operated and valued in the age of embodied intelligence.
From Digital City to AI City
When i-City was first launched more than 20 years ago, the concept of a “digital city” revolved around broadband connectivity, data centres and smart buildings. Today, the meaning of digital transformation has evolved.
According to I-Berhad chairman Tan Sri Lim Kim Hong, artificial intelligence and robotics are no longer background technologies. They are becoming active layers of the economy — and the built environment must adapt.
“Artificial intelligence and robotics are no longer back-end tools. They are becoming operating layers of the economy. As a result, the built environment must evolve as well,”.
AI Living represents the next step in I-Berhad’s AI and robotics residential development master plan, with RM1 billion allocated to integrate advanced technologies across the i-City township.
What Makes AI Living Different?
Slated for completion in 2030, the 500-unit residential tower is engineered as an AI- and robotics-native environment. Instead of retrofitting smart gadgets into conventional homes, the building is being designed from the ground up to support robotics, automation and AI-driven services as core features.
SA Architects Malaysia director Tony Mak described the project as a shift in thinking.
“This is not about adding technology into homes. It is about designing homes that assume AI and robotics will be present — permanently,”.
In AI Living, robots are not treated as novelty devices. They are considered functional occupants within the residential ecosystem, able to operate naturally within living spaces much like humans.
The development is powered through a strategic alliance with Agibot Innovation (Shanghai) Technology Co Ltd, a leader in humanoid robotics and embodied intelligence.
Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) Model
One of the most distinctive aspects of AI Living is its Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) approach.
Instead of requiring residents to purchase expensive domestic robots outright, robotics will be offered as an optional utility that can be leased — similar to subscribing to a service. This makes advanced automation more accessible while reducing maintenance concerns.
According to Agibot Asia-Pacific marketing director Jason Liu, domestic robots are no longer a distant concept.
“They are becoming part of everyday life and something people can realistically come home to today,”.
Under the RaaS model, costs are expected to be comparable to traditional domestic helper services, making AI-assisted living economically viable for a broader segment of residents.
Interestingly, despite its futuristic positioning, AI Living residences are being priced broadly in line with earlier developments above the DoubleTree by Hilton tower at i-City.
Improving Everyday Quality of Life
I-Bhd director Datuk Eu Hong Chew emphasised that AI Living is ultimately about enhancing residents’ wellbeing, not just showcasing cutting-edge technology.
The first layer is practical. Robots can take over routine household tasks such as cleaning, reducing reliance on traditional domestic labour.
The second layer addresses modern demographic trends. With ageing populations and dual-income households on the rise, robotics can provide elderly assistance, monitoring support, child supervision and even companionship services.
The third layer focuses on wellness and longevity. Through an AI Wellness application, residents can monitor key health indicators such as heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, AI systems can analyse aggregated data to provide personalised recommendations related to nutrition, activity patterns and lifestyle optimisation.
“AI Living is not about humans adapting to machines. It is about designing environments where machines support human wellbeing,”.
National Support for AI Integration
The project has also drawn attention from policymakers. Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Minister Chang Lih Kang praised i-City’s AI and robotics master plan after officiating the opening of the AI World Experience Centre (AIWEC).
He highlighted the importance of making advanced technologies accessible to the public, especially young people, to build confidence and future talent.
“Technology is not just about being sophisticated or advanced — it must be close to the people,”.
Redefining Property Value in the AI Era
AI Living @ i-City represents more than a property launch. It signals a shift in how real estate may be evaluated in the future.
As AI and robotics become embedded into daily life, AI compatibility and infrastructure readiness could stand alongside location as key determinants of long-term property value.
By positioning a residential tower as a real-world testbed and commercialisation platform for humanoid robotics, I-Berhad is effectively turning homes into part of the AI ecosystem.
If the traditional home was a shelter, the AI home may soon become an intelligent habitat — responsive, supportive and deeply integrated with human life.
And at i-City, that future is already under construction.
For more information, visit https://www.i-bhd.com/.
Keywords :
- AI Living i-City
- World’s first AI residences
- I-Berhad AI Living
- Robotics-as-a-Service housing
- AI homes Malaysia
- i-City Selangor property
- AI residential tower 2030
- Smart living with robotics
