KUCHING: Industries in all sectors operating in Sarawak must embrace modern machineries and artificial intelligence to keep pace with technological developments.
Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian said with the rise of technologies, this could address the issues of capacities and capabilities that the state is facing with the multitude of development projects until 2030.
“As what the Premier (Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg) said, at the moment, Sarawak is facing capacities issues despite the state’s strong financial performances. Hence, we have sick projects that are due to insufficient capacity,” said Dr Sim at the launching ceremony of Zoomlion heavy equipment and machineries at Edaran HS Ngee Hong, Jalan Kuching Serian yesterday (June 28).
He said, while the state was facing various challenges related to funding and project availability, it was also facing shortage of capacity.
He said Sarawak should learn from China where industries were moving towards automation, adding that the state should not wait in transitioning to autonomous technologies.
“It is crucial for Sarawakians to recognise that the advancement of technology has surpasses the fourth industrial revolution (IR 4.0) which has transformed all industries.
“We look at China where it has witnessed the operation of driverless machinery and equipment and Sarawak soon will experience similar changes.
“Sarawak may not possess the same manpower and resources as China, but it can still effectively embrace and adopt technology,” said the Deputy Premier.
In addition, proactive efforts must be made in terms of human capital that meets the demand of future skills and prepare for future challenges.
“The new generation of workforces should take further steps in embracing the direction of green energy, which we have embarked upon to avoid missing out on opportunities.
“Otherwise, there could be a mismatch opportunity. There are new jobs but people are not qualified or skilled.
“Even with autonomous technology, the equipment and machinery need mechanics to service and maintain them,” he said.
