ADOPTION of digital technology will be vigorously pursued in the coming 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and beyond.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said his priority had always been to bring about a major paradigm shift in development strategy through adoption of digital technology.
“This is the way to move forward to make our economy more competitive globally so that we can have more global prominence.
“Successful implementation of these initiatives will boost our economic competitiveness and lay the foundation for Sarawak to become an attractive investment destination for digital-related economic activities,” he said in his winding-up speech today.
Elaborating on the state’s innovation initiatives, he reminded that building an innovative society would not happen overnight.
“But we are putting in place key ecosystems and policies that will encourage and promote innovation.”
He added that innovation was required for the economy to respond to the shock of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Testing technologies are changing quickly; for instance, vaccines are being developed at a rapid rate never seen before. This is how a pandemic can create opportunities despite its negative ramifications.”
Abang Johari also mentioned that there were many areas of opportunities for innovation in Sarawak whereby research and developments, particularly in digital technologies and biodiversity, could position Sarawak as a test bed and living lab for scientists to develop technologies in a wide range of applications.
“With its vast biodiversity resources, Sarawak needs to take care of its flora and fauna and protect the environment.
“We want to ensure that these resources are used sustainably for research as well as to develop new innovations that will place Sarawak on the world map.”
Additionally, he said the state also sought to encourage and develop more indigenous products for commercialisation.
“Only through research and development can we create new forms of products that have potential economic value for commercialisation.”
