KUCHING: Sarawak is pushing ahead with blockchain technology as part of its plan to build a stronger digital economy under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the event marked the start of efforts to build a blockchain ecosystem through education, industry collaboration and government support.
“We already have the right ingredients for this journey: green energy, strong government policies and young, tech-savvy talents,” he said when met by the media after the officiating ceremony of Borneo Blockchain Conference at Borneo Cultures Museum yesterday.
He said Sarawak’s drive to adopt blockchain is in line with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s goal of transforming the economy beyond commodities and into new areas of digital growth.
With infrastructure and connectivity now in place, he added that the next step under PCDS 2030 is to create prosperity through talent development.
“Blockchain technology is already part of daily life even if many people do not realise it.
“Digital IDs, medical records and even NFTs that authenticate artwork are built on blockchain.
“When a digital piece of art is sold, it cannot be copied or transferred without record, and that is the value of blockchain,” he said.
In light of this, Dr Sim pointed out that local talents are already applying blockchain in digital art, showing that the technology has taken root in Sarawak’s creative scene.
He added that the wider use of blockchain will require stronger data protection and legal frameworks.
“Medical records will need to move to blockchain so that no one can hack into them. But right now there is no law for that. Data security and protection laws must catch up,” he said.
Having said that, he thanked the speakers and participants who attended the conference at the Borneo Cultures Museum, calling it an important step in Sarawak’s digital journey.
“We are only at the beginning of this technology, but it is already here.
“With education, regulation and industry support, Sarawak can build a strong blockchain ecosystem,” he said.
