KUCHING: Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) and Grab Malaysia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to drive growth in Sarawak’s tourism and small business sectors through enhanced digital accessibility.
The agreement will leverage Grab’s technology and in-app capabilities to promote Sarawak as a key tourism destination across Southeast Asia, according to a statement yesterday.
Additionally, it aimed to digitalise local businesses, expanding their customer reach and income potential.
“By tapping into Grab’s technological expertise, data-driven ecosystem, and extensive regional reach, we are not only enhancing digital accessibility for local businesses but also creating an investment-ready digital economy. This partnership is a strategic move to attract innovation, empower entrepreneurship, fuel economic expansion, and solidify Sarawak’s presence on the global digital map,” said SDEC chief executive officer Datuk Sudartono Osman.
Meanwhile, Grab Malaysia managing director Adelene Foo said, “We are excited to deepen our investment into Sarawak, and are grateful for the partnership of the Sarawak government and the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation. We are dedicated to drawing on our technology and insights to enhance the digital capabilities in the state, strengthen the resilience of local businesses through digitalisation, serving Sarawakians’ growing demand for reliable and convenient online services, and creating meaningful opportunities overall for the vibrant communities of Sarawak.”
The partnership will focus on several initiatives, including supporting tourism growth, promoting local merchants through the GrabFood 5-Star Programme, merchant training and financial literacy programmes, digitalising Pasar Tani/Tamu, and providing sustainable mobility options.
In a separate development, local supermarket chain Everrise has joined forces with Grab to digitalise its operations and expand on-demand grocery delivery in East Malaysia.
Grab will integrate its technology into Everrise’s operations, offering online grocery shopping with reliable delivery options.
Data insights will be used to improve customer experience, and loyalty programmes will be integrated.
Everrise executive director Jeffrey Sia said, “In Grab we have found the best partner to help us realise those ambitions. Grab has the best technology and know-how to deliver a great online grocery delivery experience, and most importantly, have a strong customer-first mindset. I am confident and excited to work with them to deliver the same promise of quality and consistency that Everrise customers best know us for.”
