BRISTOL: Sarawak is stepping up efforts to position itself as a regional hub for a data- and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven economy by leveraging its renewable energy strengths and expanding strategic collaboration with the University of Bristol.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the working visit to the United Kingdom, particularly Bristol, has opened new dimensions in developing future industries involving AI, aerospace and high-performance computing capabilities.
“We had discussions with the University of Bristol on several sectors within the aerospace industry as well as the university’s computing power in conducting research on the future of AI and aerospace industries,” he said.
He said this when met by UKAS and TVS after the Sarawak semiconductor engagement session jointly organised by SMD Semiconductor and the University of Bristol at NCC here, on Tuesday (May 5).
Abang Johari pointed out that the use of data as the foundation of a new economy is no longer optional but an unavoidable necessity.
“This aligns with our aspiration to use data as the primary foundation in planning a new economy, and from our discussions, it is clear that we have no choice but to move in this direction.
“We must leverage the latest technologies to strengthen capabilities and add value to existing resources through imaging technology and data,” he said.
Abang Johari said Sarawak through SMD Semiconductor will enhance research collaborations, including in high-impact areas such as quantum AI and aerospace.
He said the visit also provided exposure to large-scale supercomputing capabilities that underpin the modern data economy.
“Besides discussions, we were taken to see a supercomputing facility. I have previously spoken about real-time data, where we obtain strategic datasets.
“We were given the opportunity to visit a supercomputing complex equipped with 5,820 GPUs supported by high-performance servers. They also utilise about 3.5 megawatts per hour to operate approximately 5,000 GPUs used in the United Kingdom,” he said.
Abang Johari said Sarawak’s advantage in renewable energy could serve as a key catalyst in offering more competitive operating costs compared to developed countries.
He said this could open opportunities for the state to emerge as a regional centre for research and data processing.
“Energy tariffs here are relatively high. If we collaborate with them, we can adopt similar approaches in Sarawak by leveraging our renewable energy strengths and competitive tariffs.
“If we are able to offer lower costs in terms of energy supply and cooling systems, such as the use of recycled water cooling, we have the potential to become a research hub in this region,” he added.
