Sarikei Innovation Centre nurtures local digital talent through Game Dev Jam 2025

KUCHING (Dec 11): The Sarikei Innovation Centre (SIC) has reached a new milestone in cultivating local digital talent with the successful conclusion of Game Dev Jam: Design, Create & Compete! Sarikei 2025.

The recent three-day challenge, supported by Kenyalang DEV, aimed to equip local youth and community members with essential digital skills.

SIC, in a statement, explained that the initiative was designed not only to teach technical skills but also to encourage critical thinking.

By using gamification methods, the centre hopes to foster a robust problem-solving mindset among young people.

A total of 60 participants, forming 16 teams, took part.

The diverse group included secondary school students, university undergraduates, and adult learners passionate about creative technology.

Through hands-on workshops, rapid prototyping, and mentoring sessions, they developed game concepts centred on the theme ‘Safety’.

The event culminated in a pitching session where teams presented their prototypes to a panel of industry judges.

SIC stated the Game Dev Jam acts as a launchpad for digital talent in rural Sarawak; providing access, exposure, and encouragement for youth to explore opportunities in technology, game design, and digital innovation.

By hosting such programmes locally, the centre aims to help bridge the digital divide and inspire a new generation of creators.

Mentor and Youthopia chief product officer Nathalia Lim commended the participants’ drive and creativity.

“We were very impressed with the various game ideas that these participants came up with in such a short time,” she said.

“Their enthusiasm to learn new skills was also encouraging. We look forward to seeing what amazing things these participants, especially the younger students, will create in the future.”

Reiterating its commitment to regional digital transformation, SIC confirmed more skill-building and innovation-focused programmes are in the pipeline.

These efforts aim to strengthen Sarikei’s position as a growing hub for technology and creative industries in central Sarawak.

The centre remains focused on uplifting local communities, broadening digital capabilities, and unlocking new opportunities through initiatives like the Game Dev Jam.