DALAT: Sarawak has advanced its language technology efforts with DeepSAR, a locally developed AI model that provides real-time multilingual translation and uses local data to improve digital communication with global audiences.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS) had enabled the system to perform instant translation between several major local and international languages.
“I asked SAINS to develop a system similar to China’s DeepSeek, and today they have achieved it with DeepSAR.
“Mandarin can now be automatically translated into Melanau, and likewise English into Iban.
“This is part of the new economy, where artificial intelligence (AI) helps speed up problem-solving and supports our digital direction,” he said when officiating at the Centre of Technical Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) Dalat Campus here today.
DeepSAR was developed as a language model trained on Sarawak’s linguistic, cultural and environmental data, enabling it to communicate local content more accurately to global users.
The approach supports digital interaction and opens new opportunities in the state’s digital economy.
Abang Johari said the system’s ability to translate local languages in real time would also be useful for visitors, similar to how travellers rely on translation apps when navigating countries where they do not speak the language.
“When we travel to France, we don’t understand their language, so we download a translation app.
“The same applies in Sarawak. Tourists can translate our languages directly using the technology developed by SAINS,” he said.
However, the Premier cautioned that AI carried risks if misused, particularly through manipulated or misleading content.
“There are dangers when AI is abused, like fake videos of President Trump speaking Iban. When did Trump ever know Iban?” he said.
“If AI is used to harm or mock others, it becomes dangerous. We must understand this technology and use it responsibly.”
In February, Abang Johari said Sarawak planned to build its own AI model, DeepSAR, to showcase local content globally and support international interaction.
The idea was inspired by Chinese engineer, Liang Wenfeng, whose DeepSeek model has gained prominence as a challenger to leading AI systems developed in the United States.
