International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak returns with forward-looking theme

KUCHING: The International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak 2024 (IDECS 2024) returns for its 7th edition with the forward-looking theme, ‘AI for Sustainable Development: Navigating the Green and Circular Future’.

Taking place from Oct 16 to 17 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), the event is hosted by the Sarawak government and jointly organised by the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), and Sarawak Information Systems (SAINS).

The two-day conference, which will be inaugurated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, will highlight how artificial intelligence (AI) can drive the green and circular economy by extending the life cycle of products.

According to IDECS 2024 deputy chairman and SDEC chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani, the event brings together global leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss how AI can drive sustainable development by promoting more environmentally friendly economic models.

He said that the organisation of the event aims to provide a platform to explore AI’s potential in building a future economy that minimises waste, restores natural ecosystems, and fosters sustainable development.

“By leveraging AI, we seek to encourage collaborative and innovative approaches to a greener and more circular economic model, setting new benchmarks and inspiring action both locally and globally.

“With its abundant natural resources, proactive sustainable development initiatives, and highly skilled workforce, Sarawak is uniquely positioned to lead global discussions on sustainability, while its commitment to leveraging advanced technologies reinforces its leadership in promoting a sustainable future,” he said.

Meanwhile, IDECS 2024 lead secretariat and SDEC head of Research and Product Development, Dr Khairul Hafiz Sharkawi stated that IDECS 2024 emphasises actionable solutions and partnerships, aiming to translate discussions into real- world applications that benefit both the environment and society.

“By promoting AI-driven strategies aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the conference seeks to empower communities to spur digital economy, inspire businesses to adopt greener technologies, and drive innovations that create jobs, strengthen industries, and attract investment in sustainable practices,” he said.

For the record, among the keynote speakers for the event this time around are Dr Jordan Nguyen, a leading biomedical engineer, presenting on ‘The Future of AI in the Green Digital Economy’; Scott Bales, fintech innovation leader, delivering the opening keynote on ‘Future Cities and Digital Citizens’; and Amanda Johnstone, AI technologist and communicator, speaking on ‘The Rise of Women in STEM and Soft Power’ at the SHETECH track.

With that, IDECS 2024 is anticipated to welcome 2,000 participants including speakers, delegates, and exhibitors comprising industry experts, policymakers, innovators, and academicians around the globe as well as members of the public.