KUCHING: After decades in print, Utusan Sarawak and Mingguan Sarawak will cease their print editions, with their final issue hitting newsstands on February 28, 2025.
According to Utusan Sarawak executive editorial advisor Kadir Dikoh, starting March 1, the newspaper will transition entirely to digital platforms, including its website, mobile app, and Facebook page.
He said that the move was necessary to keep pace with the rapidly evolving media landscape.
“The reality today is that almost everything is dominated by digital and online platforms. About 20 years ago, people would enjoy breakfast at coffee shops while reading printed newspapers.
“Today, that scene is almost nonexistent—everyone is glued to their mobile phones instead,” he said in his weekly column in Utusan Sarawak on Thursday.
He added that Utusan Sarawak is embracing technological advancements to enhance its digital presence.
“Therefore, Utusan Sarawak is keeping up with the times by expanding its online presence. Through its social media platform, FB Utusan Sarawak has also become the first in Malaysia to use AI-generated news anchors for its nightly news bulletin
“Farewell to the printed version of Utusan Sarawak and Mingguan Sarawak,” he said.
Earlier, Kadir said with the rapid development of IT today, the media industry worldwide is facing challenges.
“Some newspapers have shut down completely, while others have ceased their print versions and transitioned entirely to online platforms,” he said.
He also mentioned that Utusan Sarawak was first published on January 16, 1949, by journalist and freedom fighter Abang Ikhwan Zainie.
“Tan Sri Abang Ikhwan later became active in politics and even served as the Acting Governor of Sarawak. This highly respected figure passed away in 1981 at the age of 66,” he said.
