IDECS 2026: Awang Tengah says real test comes after conference

KUCHING, 6 Oct: The real measure of the International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2026 will be what happens after the conference, with agreements and partnerships expected to translate into investment, commercial activity and jobs for Sarawak, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

Awang Tengah, who is also the Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment, said the success of the conference should not be judged solely by the number of discussions or agreements concluded.

“The true measure of its success is not simply the number of discussions held or agreements signed. It is what happens after the conference,” he said in his closing address at the International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak 2026, here.

He added that commitments made during the conference should be followed through and produce tangible outcomes, including realised investments, commercialised research, technology transfer, stronger businesses and skilled employment.

“I hope to see these commitments translated into tangible outcomes,” he said.

Awang Tengah further said Sarawak recorded about RM16.4 billion in approved investments across 330 projects in 2025, expected to generate more than 6,500 employment opportunities.

He said attracting investment was only part of the task, with the state also seeking lasting economic value through skilled jobs, knowledge transfer, local procurement and stronger participation by Sarawak companies.

“Sarawak is strengthening its capabilities in higher value industries including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, digital technology and the emerging space economy,” he said.

Apart from that, Awang Tengah said Sarawak wanted investors and industry partners to take a long-term approach by developing local talent and integrating Sarawakian enterprises into their supply chains.

He explained that the aim was for Sarawak to become a place where technology is developed, research is commercialised and local talent plays a meaningful role in future industries.

“We have to collaborate. We have to work together,” he said. – TVS