S’wak launches Data Governance Framework to power smarter, more trusted gov’t services

Abu Bakar (fifth left) and other distinguished guests during a photo call after launching the Sarawak Data Governance Framework during the Digital Automation Through Technological Advancement (D.A.T.A) programme held in conjunction with Sarawak Digital Government Week 2026 at a hotel in Kuching on July 8, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 8: The Sarawak government today launched the Sarawak Data Governance Framework (SDGF) Version 1.0, a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring government data is managed in a more systematic, secure, high-quality and integrity-driven manner to enable ministries and agencies to make data-driven decisions.

The framework was launched by Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki during the Digital Automation Through Technological Advancement (D.A.T.A) programme held in conjunction with Sarawak Digital Government Week 2026 at a hotel here.

Held under the theme “Data and AI Empowers the Government”, the programme marked a significant step in Sarawak’s digital transformation agenda by establishing a structured approach towards strengthening data management, sharing, protection, quality and oversight across the Sarawak public sector.

The event was organised through a collaboration between the Sarawak Civil Service Digitalisation Unit (SCSDU), Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and the Ministry of Digital Malaysia through National Digital Department, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing digital government initiatives in line with national priorities.

More than 250 officers and representatives from various Sarawak public sector agencies attended the programme, demonstrating strong commitment towards enhancing data governance and accelerating digital transformation efforts across the region.

According to a media release, the SDGF provides a governance foundation to help government agencies manage data more effectively, securely and responsibly while promoting improved data quality, stronger accountability, secure data sharing and evidence-based decision-making.

Speaking at the launch, Abu Bakar said Sarawak must continue strengthening its readiness as the state expands its capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI), data centres, advanced digital infrastructure and digital government services.

“As Sarawak builds capability in artificial intelligence, data centres, advanced digital infrastructure and digital government services, the Sarawak Civil Service must also raise its level of readiness.

“The launch of the Sarawak Data Governance Framework is therefore significant, as it provides clear direction for agencies to manage, govern, protect and share data more consistently, securely and responsibly,” he said in his speech text today.

He stressed that the effectiveness of AI systems depended heavily on the quality and reliability of the data supporting them.

“AI systems depend on the quality and reliability of the data behind them. If our data is incomplete, outdated, or poorly governed, AI will not solve the problem, it will scale the problem.

“Agencies must therefore take ownership of their data and continue improving its quality, timeliness and reliability,” he added.

The SDGF is structured around seven key themes, namely Data Handling, Roles and Responsibilities, Provisions, Oversight, Safeguards, Products and Services, and Governance Entities.

The framework applies to the handling of Sarawak government data by Sarawak public sector entities throughout the entire data lifecycle. It also serves as a reference guide for Sarawak government-linked or owned entities and other parties handling government data through approved arrangements, contracts or other instruments.

Its development involved extensive engagement and consultation sessions with 42 government agencies and organisations.

Moving forward, implementation of the SDGF will be carried out through a structured roadmap led by SMA in collaboration with SCSDU, government agencies and relevant stakeholders.

The framework is expected to support Sarawak’s digital transformation initiatives involving artificial intelligence, cloud services, digital platforms and cross-agency data collaboration, while enhancing data security, improving reliability and strengthening public trust in government digital services.

The SDGF will also support key platforms and initiatives including the Sarawak Data Management System, the Sarawak Open Data Portal and the Sarawak Intelligent Operation Centre, as demand grows for trusted, timely and actionable data across the public sector.

The framework aligns with the aspirations of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 and the 13th Malaysia Plan 2026–2030, reinforcing Sarawak’s commitment to building a secure, trusted and value-driven digital government ecosystem.

Also present at the launch were Ministry of Digital Malaysia secretary-general Datuk Fabian Bigar, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operations) Datu Hii Chang Kee, SCSDU director Datu Grace Huong Siew Hung and SMA deputy general manager Ts Dr Suhaila Jaffar. — DayakDaily