
Associate Professor Uznir Ujang
Head of 3D GIS Research Group, Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia
Title: GeoAI and 3D Urban Modelling: Revolutionizing Surveying and Geoinformation for Sustainable Cities
Abstract:
The rapid pace of urbanization has introduced complex challenges in environmental monitoring,
infrastructure planning, and sustainable development. Traditional 2D surveying and
geoinformation systems are increasingly limited in addressing these multidimensional issues.
This keynote introduces a transformative approach, integrating Geospatial Artificial Intelligence
(GeoAI) with 3D urban modelling, to advance the capabilities of surveying and geoinformation
science. We will explore how data from UAVs, LiDAR, and satellite imagery can be combined with
3D GIS standards (e.g., CityGML, IFC) and AI techniques (e.g., deep learning, spatial clustering)
to create dynamic, predictive urban models. Applications will include air pollution mapping,
noise propagation analysis, wind comfort simulation, and energy efficiency optimization in city
environments. This talk emphasizes the critical role of interoperability, spatial reasoning, and
automation in modern surveying workflows. The outcomes not only support smarter city planning
but also align directly with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11
(Sustainable Cities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By bridging GeoAI with 3D modelling, we unlock
a powerful spatial paradigm that redefines how we survey, analyze, and design the cities of
tomorrow.
Biography:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Uznir Ujang is an internationally recognized expert in 3D GIS, GeoAI, and urban
geospatial analytics. He serves as an Associate Professor at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM),
where he leads cutting-edge research in 3D city modelling, spatial data infrastructures, and
geospatial artificial intelligence. Dr. Uznir earned his PhD in Multidimensional GIS through a joint
program between UTM and the Technical University of Denmark. His extensive portfolio includes
over 100 indexed publications, multiple research grants, and several intellectual properties
focused on smart urban solutions. He is actively engaged in editorial boards, technical
committees, and global collaborations that bridge geoinformatics, environmental science, and
urban sustainability. As a frequent keynote speaker and academic leader, Dr. Uznir advocates for
integrating AI-driven geospatial technologies to support the development of smarter, sustainable,
and more resilient cities worldwide.