Muslim world urged to embrace technology, sustainability

KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has called on leaders of the Muslim world to explore the utilisation of technology and become sustainable participants.

“In the face of economic challenges and our commitment, the Muslim world has no alternative but to embrace technology in the pursuit of progress. Our esteemed scholar, Ibnu Khaldun, has proposed a path for us to transform. By following his guidance, the Muslim world can achieve greater levels of success,” he stated.

Abang Johari highlighted that Sarawak has initiated the development of the Halal Hub, Permanent Food Production Zones, and Agro-parks in strategic areas. These initiatives serve as centres for agricultural innovation, integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.

He further explained that Sarawak aims to optimize resource utilization, increase productivity, and minimize environmental impact through the implementation of precision farming techniques. In the livestock sector, technology and innovation are employed for farming and breeding.

“These efforts not only align with our objective of ensuring sufficient food for Sarawak but also demonstrate our commitment to environmentally sustainable and economically viable agricultural practices,” he elaborated.

Abang Johari delivered his keynote address at the Global Muslim Business Forum (GMBF) Gala Dinner, inaugurated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on November 28.

He emphasised that the forum should serve as a platform to drive economic growth, foster innovation, and create positive social impact, not only for the global community at large.

“We have established InvestSarawak as the one-stop centre for investment in Sarawak. I assure you that there are numerous opportunities for all of you to explore in Sarawak,” he assured.

“The prospects go beyond upstream activities, as there is much more to explore within the industry’s value and supply chains, both vertically and horizontally,” he added.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including the Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia, His Excellency Prof Dr (H.C.) K H Ma’ruf Amin; Deputy Premier cum Organizing Chairman of the Global Muslim Business Forum 2023, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan; KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific Chairman, Tan Sri Majid Khan; Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture President, His Excellency Abdullah Saleh Kamel; as well as Anwar’s wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and Abang Johari’s wife, Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang.