S’wak to host WITSA Global AI Index launch at IDECS 2027, track global AI ecosystem devt

(centre) witnesses the exchange of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) and Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd during IDECS 2026 at BCCK on Oct 5, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (Japen)

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Oct 5: Sarawak will become the launchpad for the second World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) Global AI Index in 2027, putting the State at the centre of efforts to track the development of artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystems worldwide.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the index would provide governments and industry with an updated, evidence-based view of AI ecosystem development globally.

He said it would cover key areas including infrastructure, talent, entrepreneurship, use cases, data, policy and investment.

“The second WITSA Global AI Summit strengthens Sarawak’s engagement with WITSA through its Global AI Ecosystem Network, connecting our growing AI ecosystem with international partners in technology, investment, research and policy,” he said.

He said this in his speech at the opening of the ninth International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.

The WITSA Global AI Summit 2027, to be held in conjunction with IDECS 2027, will also bring several international AI platforms to Kuching.

These include the WITSA Global AI Awards, the WITSA World Cup for the Zohari Challenge Trophy for the second time, and the launch of the second WITSA Global AI Index.

Abang Johari said hosting the summit would also give the State an opportunity to expand international partnerships in AI development while connecting its technology ecosystem with industry players, researchers, investors and policymakers from around the world. — DayakDaily