BY ALEXANDRA LORNA & NURIN PATRA
KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that SPay Global (formerly known as Sarawak Pay) has processed a total of RM4.2 billion in transactions since it began operations.
Sarawak launched its own e-wallet, SPay Global in 2017, a platform that has facilitated cashless transactions across various public and private services, significantly boosting digital financial inclusion.
“To date, SPay has processed RM4.2 billion in transactions, boasting 770,000 registered users and 91,000 merchants throughout the region,” he said in his opening address during the 7th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2024 at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching here today (Oct 16).
He said with innovation at the state’s core, the Sarawak government is leveraging cutting-edge digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance government services and improve the business landscape.
“In 2018, we rolled out Sarawak ID, a single sign-on identification system that simplifies access to over 400 government services.
“This innovation streamlines operations, reduces manual processes, and promotes transparency, empowering citizens with easier access to e-licensing, e-billing, and e-land services.”
He addeed that the Sarawak government is also at the forefront of AI in public service delivery.
“Our ‘Dayang’ virtual assistant—a local dialect-enabled chatbot—allows Sarawakians to access government services effortlessly through their mobile devices.
“This tool enhances user interaction and provides localised services, supporting basic functions like bill payments, Sarawak ID assistance, contractor registration, and case logging via Talikhidmat.”
For the private sector, Abang Johari mentioned that the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) is mandated to lead digital transformation in multiple economic areas.
“Together with key partners, including MINTRED, they have digitalised more than 20,000 MSMEs across various industries in Sarawak.
“Through the High Tech Transformation Programme, 10 Sarawakian companies in the manufacturing sector have greatly benefited from digital technology adoption in their daily processes.
“In addition, through various programmes conducted by partners such as SDEC in the Sarawak Digital and Innovation Ecosystem, we have nurtured 133 startups with a collective valuation of RM80 million.
“By fostering a collaborative environment, we boost local competitiveness and position Sarawak as a leader in digital innovation,” said Abang Johari.
