Sarawak Premier: Data centres may be obsolete in five years as AI Grid emerges

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg (centre) flanked by Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan (left) and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof during the Sarawakku Sayang Programme in Limbang on April 11, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR)

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, April 11: Traditional data centres could become obsolete within the next five years due to the emergence of new artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure systems known as an “AI Grid”, says Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the rapid evolution of AI technology is expected to fundamentally change how data is managed and processed, moving away from centralised data centre models towards a more decentralised and real-time data flow system.

“I am of the view that in five years, data centres will be obsolete. In five years, there will be no function for data centres because new technology will create what we call an AI Grid. Data will flow freely.

“What you will need is a strong server, without relying on a data centre, because data will move freely in real time, provided there are strong servers,” he said when speaking during the Sarawakku Sayang programme in Limbang, broadcast live on YouTube by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).

He also likened the concept to electricity distribution systems, where substations are used to enhance power supply and stability.

According to him, leaders and civil servants must be prepared for such rapid technological shifts, including understanding emerging AI models and their applications in governance and industry.

Abang Johari also outlined the evolution of artificial intelligence technologies, noting that generative AI currently allows users to create content and solutions through interactive systems.

“Now we already have agentic AI. It has only been around for about a year. It can break down the entire flow of data, including in manufacturing.

“For example, if Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom (Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development) wants to plant rice, you can go to a website and it will advise you on what to do, including soil structure. That is what we call agentic AI,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Abang Johari said the next stage of development will be “strategic AI”, which is expected to further transform decision-making and governance systems.

He urged public servants to continuously upgrade their knowledge and stay informed about global technological developments, including research published on AI advancements. — DayakDaily