BY JACINTHA JOLENE & JAMES WONG
KUCHING: The business community in Sarawak must stay up-to-date with the rapidly evolving technology of today.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasized that since the state embraced the digital economy in 2018, there have been significant advancements in the realm of digital initiatives.
He stressed that digital transformation encompasses not only software and application development but also extends to the pivotal realm of artificial intelligence (AI).
According to Abang Johari, AI serves as the transformative catalyst in the digital landscape, progressing from AI to generative AI.
“This afternoon (Wednesday), I came across something new in AI technology. It’s called Humane AI Pin, a novel device that enables you to find solutions at your fingertips.
“With this device, you can simply pin it to your lapel, and if you encounter a problem, just activate the device and voice it. It will instantly assist you in solving your problem.
“This is something that will revolutionize the entire business landscape and the way you conduct business, where the act of problem-solving (Googling) takes a backseat.
“Therefore, we must also adapt the way we govern due to the tremendous technological changes,” he stated.
Abang Johari made these remarks during his speech at the Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Chinese New Year Banquet Dinner and Sarawak Entrepreneur of the Year (EOYS) 2023 event held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Wednesday (Jan 24).
Addressing the energy transition, Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak’s focused efforts to leverage its competitive advantage in renewable energy.
Given the state’s abundant resources, he outlined strategic collaborations with Japan and Korea, particularly in the exploration of methylcyclohexane (MCH) for more efficient hydrogen production.
He mentioned that with diverse resources available in the state, such as water, solar power, and biomass for wood pellets, along with innovative hybrid energy solutions combining solar and wind power, Sarawak is steadily progressing in its transition towards renewable energy.
“Sarawak possesses these renewable energy sources, and once harnessed, the shift from fossil fuels to renewables will significantly contribute to our carbon mitigation efforts.
“Fortunately, we are currently not only carbon-neutral but have a negative carbon footprint due to our vast forests serving as a carbon sink. Though we are not carbon emitters, we take climate change seriously,” he added.
He further revealed that Sarawak’s green initiatives have attracted the attention of Bloomberg, as he had a special interview with the outlet on Wednesday morning to highlight Sarawak’s progress in the energy transition.
“They acknowledged Sarawak’s leading role in energy transition. While few countries are undergoing this transition, Sarawak dares to take the leap and implement hydrogen in its economic agenda.
