SCCC, Beijing AI Group explore strategic collaboration in AI, healthcare, drones and green energy

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 4): The Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) on Wednesday hosted a delegation from China’s Beijing AI Group at its headquarters in Kolombong, where both sides held in-depth discussions on potential collaboration in artificial intelligence, medical technology, drone applications and new energy projects.

The delegation included Chairman of Zhongling Kejian, Win Li, the company’s Technical Lead, Felix, and President of the Malaysia–China Friendship Cities Association, Jeffrey Kok. They met with SCCC President Datuk Frankie Liew and the chamber’s committee members.

Liew said the meeting explored various cooperation models, including joint ventures, equity investment and financial collaboration, paving the way for future AI industry development in Sabah.

He noted that artificial intelligence has become a central driver of global economic growth, and Sabah is positioned at a crucial juncture within this technological shift.

“There is immense potential for cooperation,” he said.

According to Liew, both parties reached strong consensus in several industrial sectors, with drone and intelligent hardware applications emerging as key focus areas. Sabah’s extensive land, agricultural and marine resources, coupled with its tourism assets, make it an ideal environment for drone deployment, he added.

“There is significant demand for industrial inspection, precision agriculture, environmental monitoring and logistics delivery. We hope to leverage Beijing AI Group’s customised solutions to drive industry upgrading,” he said.

Liew also expressed confidence in AI-powered smart healthcare solutions, noting Sabah’s commitment to enhancing medical services. He said the state is keen to learn from China’s advancements in AI medical imaging, portable diagnostic devices and health big-data systems, with hopes for future adoption in hospitals, community centres and corporate settings.

On energy cooperation, Liew highlighted Sabah’s natural advantage in renewable energy due to its abundant sunlight. He said both parties are exploring opportunities involving AI in power generation forecasting, grid dispatch, energy management and energy-saving technologies to support the state’s green economy ambitions.

He further emphasised that talent development is essential for all long-term cooperation. SCCC hopes to work with Beijing AI Group to introduce AI education tools and explore the creation of an “AI Talent Incubation Centre” to nurture local professionals.

Liew believes the technological expertise of Beijing AI Group, combined with SCCC’s business network and industrial resources, will create strong synergy.

“We are not only discussing business opportunities — we are jointly designing Sabah’s intelligent future,” he said.