SINGAPORE: Sarawak is looking to accelerate its digital transformation agenda through potential collaboration with IBM Singapore in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing and cybersecurity as the state continues to build a resilient, innovation-driven digital economy.
The strategic meeting was held at IBM Singapore’s headquarters in Marina Boulevard on Wednesday (July 29) and was led by IBM Consulting ASEAN’s Managing Partner, Abraham Thomas, together with IBM Global Business Services’ partner, Balasubrahmanyam Pappu, and the company’s senior leadership team.
Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development), Datuk Seri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, who led the Sarawak delegation, said the state remains committed to advancing its digital economy in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
He said advanced technologies such as AI and quantum computing have the potential to enhance government service delivery, attract high-value investments and strengthen Sarawak’s position as a competitive regional digital hub.
During the meeting, IBM shared its global digital transformation experience, highlighting that successful organisational transformation depends on effective change management through reducing operational complexity, streamlining end-to-end workflows, automating manual processes and leveraging AI to improve productivity and efficiency.
Discussions centred on three strategic priority areas identified by both parties, namely AI as a long-term investment, the development of quantum computing platforms, and strengthening cybersecurity capabilities to safeguard critical digital infrastructure and future digital services.
Both sides also explored opportunities for knowledge sharing, technology transfer and strategic collaboration between IBM Singapore and Sarawak agencies to enhance the state’s digital capabilities and prepare its workforce and institutions for future technological challenges.
