Sarawak is building strategic asset data through AI

KUCHING, 5 Oct: Sarawak wants to go beyond data protection by merely making it a strategic asset to help governments make better decisions and improve service delivery to the people.

Sarawak Prime Minister, Datuk Tinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that the approach was strengthened through the Sarawak-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) Infrastructure Platform which provides a foundation for locally administered AI computing, as well as ensuring management and strategic data protection of the government remain guaranteed.

"It's not just about data protection. It's about turning data into a strategic asset for better decision making and service delivery", he said.

He said this while addressing the inaugural Sarawak International Digital Economy Conference (IDECS) 2026 at Borneo Kuching Convention Centre (BCCK), here, today.

According to Abang Johari, the integration of data, computing and AI capabilities in locally managed environments also enables Sarawak to reduce its dependence on external platforms.

"It can reduce dependence on external platforms while strengthening Sarawak's ability to develop and use AI according to our own priorities", he said.

In addition, the data can be used interchangeably for smarter urban planning and more efficient development processes.

ADAM AI used in the Sarawak Public Service is an example of how government-approved information can be used for policy analysis, scenario assessment, document preparation and supporting decision making.