BY ALEXANDRA LORNA & JACINTHA JOLENE
KUCHING: Sarawak has taken a significant step forward in its journey towards becoming a fully digital government with the launch of SarawakPass, an AI-driven digital identity platform.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the initiative, developed by the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), marks a pivotal chapter in the state’s digital transformation.
“SarawakPass represents the next evolution in our digital governance journey.
“Formerly known as SarawakID, it now incorporates enhanced digital identity features, public key infrastructure (PKI) security, a digital wallet, and MyBenefit integration – offering a single, trusted gateway to Sarawak’s digital services,” he said.
He delivered these remarks in his keynote address during the official launch of the 8th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS25) at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Abang Johari emphasised that the system embodies Sarawak’s core principle of innovation with integrity – ensuring that technological progress is always underpinned by ethics, transparency, and inclusivity.
“SarawakPass reflects our guiding philosophy of ‘one identity, many opportunities’ – providing secure, seamless, and convenient access to the government’s digital ecosystem for every Sarawakian.
“This innovation represents our broader vision: a government that is accessible anytime, anywhere – built on trust, efficiency, and inclusion,” he added.
He also highlighted that digitalisation of government services had already surpassed 62 per cent by 2025, well ahead of schedule.
Looking ahead to the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026-2030), Abang Johari affirmed that Sarawak would strengthen its commitment to both digitalisation and sustainability by promoting widespread digital adoption across government, industry, and society.
To further spur innovation, he announced the establishment of the Sarawak AI Centre (SAIC) – envisioned as a hub for research, talent development, and industry collaboration.
“SAIC will accelerate AI adoption across key sectors – from smart energy and precision agriculture to urban planning and logistics – ensuring that Sarawak remains at the forefront of the intelligent transformation era,” he said.
He further noted that, with the rise of the digital economy in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), Sarawak is seeing promising progress.
“However, we must ensure that our workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to understand and apply technology across all sectors,” he said.
“This is why we are continuing to expand telecommunications access and digital infrastructure to every corner of Sarawak – ensuring that every community, particularly in rural areas, has equal opportunities in this digital age.”
Abang Johari reiterated the importance of values in progress.
“Innovation without integrity is dangerous. As we embrace this digital and green transition, our progress must be guided by strong values, ethics, and transparency to safeguard the future of our people,” he added.
He also stressed that technology alone is not enough – people are the true drivers of change.
“Technology means little without individuals who can harness it. Human capital remains Sarawak’s greatest asset,” he said.
“Beginning in 2026, Sarawak will become the first region in Malaysia to offer free tertiary education at our own institutions – ensuring that no capable Sarawakian is left behind due to financial constraints.”
