KUCHING: Sarawak is preparing to test real-world blockchain applications through a new Blockchain Innovation and Regulatory Sandbox Centre that will let developers experiment under temporary exemptions.
Kuching Blockchain Technology Association (KBTA) president James Gan said the first pilot could involve education certificates on blockchain, which allow instant verification of graduates’ credentials.
“Today, verifying a graduate’s certificate can take weeks. On blockchain, it can be done instantly,” he said when met by Sarawak Tribune during the Borneo Blockchain Conference held at Borneo Cultures Museum yesterday.
He said that the initiative, first proposed by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, would serve as a controlled environment for companies and universities to develop and trial projects before new laws are enacted.
“Singapore and Hong Kong have similar sandboxes. It’s like an experimental zone — a lab where you can develop projects under temporary exemptions while existing regulations catch up,” he said.
He disclosed that discussions with several universities and agencies were ongoing and the first pilot projects could begin next year.
“You need infrastructure, which costs money. The idea is to let universities or partners pay a small fee per certificate, while development can be supported by private investors or government joint ventures,” he said.
Gan said the sandbox will also prepare Sarawak for real-world asset (RWA) tokenisation, where physical assets such as commodities or property are represented as digital tokens and traded globally.
He added that such innovation will allow Sarawak to attract new digital investments while developing clear frameworks to protect investors and consumers.
“Before large-scale adoption, we need both infrastructure and policy in place. Financial applications require strict oversight, but non-financial ones like certificates or trade records can move first.
“We hope this sandbox will help Sarawak build a safe, inclusive and credible blockchain ecosystem that supports innovation while protecting users,” he said.
