Renewable energy edge positions Sarawak as emerging regional hub for data processing, AI, research

Abang Johari delivering a speech at the semiconductor strategic engagement session with the University of Bristol on May 5, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 6: Sarawak’s advantage in renewable energy has the potential to offer more competitive operating costs, positioning the State to emerge as a key regional hub for data processing and research.

According to TVS news, this strategic edge is further reinforced as Sarawak strengthens its ambition to become a data-driven economy and artificial intelligence (AI) hub through collaboration with the University of Bristol.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the partnership opens up new dimensions in the development of the aerospace industry and high-performance computing.

“We had discussions with the University of Bristol on several sectors in the aerospace industry as well as computing power.

“It also includes research on the future of the AI industry and the aerospace industry,” he said after attending a semiconductor strategic engagement session with the University of Bristol on Tuesday (May 5).

He added that through SMD Semiconductor, Sarawak will further intensify research in high-impact areas such as quantum AI.

Abang Johari noted that the visit also provided valuable exposure to large-scale supercomputing capabilities, which form the backbone of the modern data economy.

“We were brought to see a supercomputing facility because I had previously mentioned real-time data, where we obtain strategic data,” he said.

The Premier stressed that Sarawak’s renewable energy capacity gives it a competitive advantage in attracting energy-intensive industries such as data centres and advanced research facilities, further strengthening its position as a digital and innovation hub. — DayakDaily