Premier: Sarawak leverages data, AI as dual engines for economic growth and social responsibility

Abang Johari (front row, fourth right) together with Sarawak delegation at the British Muslim Heritage Centre in Manchester on May 4, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 5: Data is emerging as a new and increasingly critical driver shaping both economic growth and social responsibility in Sarawak, as the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform global systems and redefine development priorities.

In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that over the past decade, AI has fundamentally reshaped the global economic structure, driven by breakthroughs in chip technology and increasingly advanced data storage capabilities.

According to him, this transformation is now entering a new phase, where AI is no longer merely a supporting technology but has become a key element in shaping development strategies.

“Five years ago we were only talking about AI, but today it has become very important. In 10 years, AI has developed to a higher level and in the next five years, it will develop into strategic intelligence,” he said.

He highlighted this during a strategic discussion session with industry players led by Member of Parliament for Manchester Rusholme Afzal Khan, held at the British Muslim Heritage Centre in Manchester on Monday (May 4) local time.

Abang Johari further stressed that data now functions as a new strategic resource that not only drives economic expansion but also strengthens the implementation of social responsibility in a more structured and impactful way.

“Data will provide us with something new. It is a resource that allows us to move forward, whether in economy or social responsibility,” he explained.

He added that technological advancement must be supported by a comprehensive ecosystem, including semiconductor chips, data centres and robust information management systems, to ensure effective implementation.

He also said Sarawak will continue to strengthen these capabilities through human capital development, including sending students abroad to build intellectual capacity and develop ownership of intellectual property.

The session also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen strategic cooperation and explore new opportunities that could benefit Sarawak’s development as well as the global community at large. — DayakDaily