KUCHING: Sarawak has rolled out an artificial intelligence (AI) training programme in its effort to bring rural communities into the mainstream digital economy.
Launched at CENTEXS Santubong, the two-day ‘MCMC Microsoft AI Teach: Skills for AI-Enabled Economy’ programme attracted over 260 participants, many of whom joined remotely from 15 National Digital Network (NADI) centres and six Digital Innovation Hubs spread across Sarawak.
These included rural areas in Kapit, Mukah, Marudi and Bintulu, ensuring that geography posed no barrier to acquiring future-ready digital skills.
Utilities and Telecommunication Minister, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, highlighted the importance of bridging the digital divide to ensure equal access to technological advancements for all Sarawakians.
“We are not only focusing on technology development but also on preparing the people of Sarawak to become both users and creators of technology.
“This programme is about bringing rural communities into the mainstream digital economy,” he said.
Through initiatives like AI Teach, rural participants receive training in AI fundamentals, generative AI, ethics and practical applications, enhancing their employability and economic participation.
The programme forms part of Sarawak’s broader strategy under the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, which aims to integrate urban and rural populations into the state’s digital transformation.
“Given the right infrastructure and opportunities, rural communities are as capable as anyone, whether in Malaysia or elsewhere. Digital inclusivity is about ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.
“Connectivity is not just about the Internet. It’s also about ensuring physical access, through roads, bridges and infrastructure, so that rural communities can be fully integrated into Sarawak’s development,” Julaihi added.
The AI Teach programme complements these efforts by equipping vulnerable groups with the tools to adapt to digital shifts.
Julaihi cited Pulau Bruit, once an isolated island with no Internet connectivity, as a success story where telecommunications towers and digital programmes have transformed the local community’s access to the digital world.
“The people of Pulau Bruit are now connected, participating in digital programmes, and embracing new technologies. This is what inclusive digital transformation looks like,” he said.
As AI continues to reshape industries, Sarawak’s rural communities are now being prepared to seize these opportunities.
Julaihi emphasised that AI training is no longer optional, but is essential for the future workforce.
“According to the World Economic Forum, by this year, 85 million jobs could be displaced by automation, but 97 million new digital jobs will be created.
“By providing AI skills to rural Sarawakians, we are ensuring they remain relevant and competitive,” he said.
Julaihi reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a future-ready, inclusive digital economy.
“With programmes like AI Teach, we are creating a Sarawak where everyone can participate and thrive in the digital era, from urban centres to the most remote villages,” he added.
