MIRI: As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries worldwide, Sarawak is setting its sights on leveraging its strengths to remain competitive in the evolving global landscape.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg reaffirmed the state’s commitment to developing its human capital and energy resources to navigate the AI-driven era.
Speaking at the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Miri-Sibuti Parliamentary Liaison Committee’s Chinese New Year dinner on Friday, the Premier emphasized Sarawak’s unique advantages.
“AI can only function with power, and we have the energy resources to support its growth,” he stated, highlighting Sarawak’s extensive renewable energy capabilities. He also pointed to the state’s rich biodiversity, which presents opportunities for cutting-edge researches, particularly in medicine.
Beyond energy and biodiversity, Abang Johari stressed the importance of human capital in ensuring Sarawak remains competitive. With its multilingual population proficient in English, Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia, the state is well-positioned to cater to the global workforce demands in the AI era.
“Sarawakians are multi-linguistic, and that is why we continue to uphold English as one of our official languages. At the same time, we recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), enabling qualified students to enter Sarawak universities, with tuition fees waived for those from UEC,” he explained.
In line with sustainability efforts, the Premier reiterated the state’s commitment to environmental conservation. With climate change making weather patterns increasingly unpredictable, Sarawak is shifting away from deforestation and focusing on carbon storage strategies to protect its biodiversity.
“We must analyse where we stand and seize the opportunities ahead. With the support of my cabinet colleagues, our party, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and the people of Sarawak, we are ready to move forward,” he affirmed.
Among the dignitaries present at the event were the Premier’s wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Minister for Transport Sarawak Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Minister for Utility and Communication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, acting State Secretary Datuk Seri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, and former Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam with his wife, Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon Chan.
