UK delegate ranks Premier Abang Johari among world’s most ‘forward-thinking’ leaders over S’wak’s rapid AI, tech strides

Abang Johari (third from right) alongside Naz (center) and delegate Muddassar (third from left) during a courtesy visit by the British parliamentary delegation to the Satria Pertiwi Complex on June 16, 2026 to advance UK-Sarawak cooperation in the AI and energy sectors. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 16: Sarawak’s ongoing strategic expansion into artificial intelligence (AI) and green energy has drawn international recognition with visiting British delegate Muddassar Ahmed ranking Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg among the world’s most forward-thinking leaders.

According to a report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Ahmed, who accompanies United Kingdom (UK) Member of Parliament and Trade Envoy to ASEAN Naz Shah on a high-level UK trade mission, stated that their courtesy call to the Premier at the Satria Pertiwi Complex today serves as a direct follow-up to a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between both parties in Manchester.

“I have met many world leaders, but he is among the most impressive I have encountered.

“He heavily encourages talent development and remains exceptionally far-sighted in planning long-term infrastructure,” he said.

Ahmed added that the primary objective of the working visit is to discuss the operational execution of the Manchester MoU and to gain deeper technical insights into Sarawak’s specific advancements within the AI and energy sectors.

Meanwhile, Naz who is leading the British parliamentary delegation emphasized that Sarawak’s technology blueprint and green economy frameworks heavily influenced her decision to make Kuching the inaugural stop of her first official mission to Malaysia.

“I am highly inspired to see the technological progress, AI development, energy planning, leadership, and the grand ambitions Sarawak holds for the future,” she said during a press conference following the meeting.

The bilateral talks concluded with both parties establishing frameworks to maintain active discussions regarding the implementation and technical roll-out of the agreed-upon digital and energy initiatives. — DayakDaily