KUCHING: Smarter infrastructure management has become the next frontier as Sarawak accelerates its digital transformation agenda.
For Insights Analytics Bhd (IAB), the priority now is not introducing new technology but strengthening the data behind it.
Managing Director Frank Wee said Sarawak is well-positioned to adopt intelligent asset-management systems across water, transport, hospitality, and construction, yet data quality remains the key challenge.
“The readiness is there. The challenge is ensuring that information across agencies is consistent, accessible, and reliable. Quality data is the foundation of digitalisation and the key to unlocking the full value of any system,” he said.
From construction to operations
With most of the state’s core infrastructure in place, IAB is helping utilities shift from building projects to optimising them through digital tools.
“Our expertise lies in making operations seamless for end users. We tailor each system to the client’s specific needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach,” Wee said.
Among IAB’s flagship products is the Intelli Water System, which replaces manual, paper-based reporting with real-time monitoring.
“It gives utilities a clearer picture of how their networks perform and helps them make faster decisions. The same concept can be extended to other sectors that require continuous monitoring and optimised operations,” he added.
Fixing data foundation
Integrating digital systems into older water networks often starts with correcting years of incomplete or inconsistent asset data.
“Although it requires time and resources, it is the foundation for long-term optimisation. Accurate data enables utilities to fully benefit from digital systems and plan ahead rather than react,” he said, noting that IAB begins with site surveys, quality checks, and GIS updates to establish a reliable baseline.
From pilot to scale
Wee said many technology projects start small, but IAB’s goal is to demonstrate measurable results that justify full deployment.
“We focus on measurable outcomes such as cost savings and improved asset visibility. When utilities see clear benefits, they gain confidence to scale the solution. Every pilot must deliver tangible value,” he said.
Expanding capacity post-listing
Following its recent listing, IAB plans to strengthen operational and technical capacity over the next 12 to 18 months to support larger, high-impact projects in Sarawak.
“Our new facility will enhance data management and provide stronger backend support for our clients,” Wee said, adding that part of the raised funds will go towards a mini data centre and IT infrastructure upgrades.
Keeping systems secure and reliable
He said all IAB deployments operate under service-level agreements with utilities to ensure performance and continuity.
“All data is encrypted during transmission, and system access is restricted to authorised users through secure logins. Our support team works closely with utility operators and remains on standby for any emergencies,” he said.
Commercial models and partnerships
Wee said contract terms are set by utilities through tenders, with IAB participating according to their frameworks.
“In many cases, we are engaged on performance-based models where fees are tied to measurable results such as reducing non-revenue water. For installation or deployment projects, we work under interim claim contracts with payments made based on completed milestones. This ensures fair value and aligns with each utility’s procurement framework,” he said.
He added that close collaboration with local agencies helps IAB tailor its solutions to operational realities on the ground.
Building talent
Wee underscored that developing local technical expertise is central to IAB’s long-term growth.
“We provide hands-on training and upskilling so knowledge stays within the state. Through partnerships with universities, we offer internships and practical project experience that create career pathways for graduates,” he said.
The aim, he added, is to nurture a home-grown ecosystem of IoT engineers, data analysts, and maintenance technicians to support Sarawak’s expanding digital-infrastructure sector.
A vision aligned with Sarawak’s future
Looking ahead, Wee said IAB aspires to become a leading end-to-end provider in the smart-city sector, offering IoT devices, data platforms, operational support, and decision-making tools.
“By working with state agencies and local partners, we aim to integrate real-time data into everyday operations, reduce wastage, improve asset performance, and enhance service delivery,” he said.
He added that this direction aligns with the Premier’s vision under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 and the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030.
“Our goal is to help Sarawak move from reactive infrastructure management to proactive, predictive, and future-ready planning,” he said.
