LIMBANG: State leaders and public sector administrators must be well-versed in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to ensure effective governance and sustainable economic development in the digital era, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said traditional systems such as data centres are expected to become less relevant in the near future, as new innovations such as AI grid systems transform how data is processed and delivered in real time.
“We in the public service must know what is going on now in terms of managing our organisation. Nowadays people are talking about AI, people are talking about data centres.
“I believe that in five years, data centres will become obsolete. There will be no function for data centres because new technology will create an AI grid. The flow of data will be free,” he said.
He made these remarks when officiating the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme at Limbang Sports Complex here on Saturday.
Abang Johari explained that future digital infrastructure will rely on strong server systems operating similarly to electrical substations, enabling seamless data flow and supporting advanced AI applications.
He added that artificial intelligence has already evolved beyond generative AI into agentic AI, which is capable of performing complex tasks and providing decision-making support across sectors, including agriculture and manufacturing.
“For example, if Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom wants to cultivate rice, the system can advise on soil structure and farming methods. That is what we call agentic AI—a true digital agent,” he said.
He further noted that the next phase of development will involve strategic AI, which is expected to reshape governance and organisational management, including within the public service.
“State leaders must learn and adapt. Public service systems must change. Ministers and permanent secretaries must also evolve in their roles to remain relevant in this new environment,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that leadership in the public sector must be grounded in knowledge and adaptability to ensure effective policy implementation.
He also highlighted Sarawak’s ambition to position itself as a leading economic force in ASEAN, driven by its own development model and strategic economic policies.
“Our most important strength is unity, and we must protect our rights while building our own economic framework. I have a dream for Sarawak to become the star of ASEAN,” he said.
The Premier also shared that he had been invited by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jakarta to speak on semiconductor development, where he engaged with regional stakeholders on advancing the industry.
“There, I shared about the development of semiconductor chips.
“The Coordinating Minister for the Economy Affairs of Indonesia granted me a multiple-entry visa to Jakarta so I can share and collaborate on the semiconductor industry,” said Abang Johari.
