Conserve world’s richest rainforest in Sarawak: Premier welcomes world’s scientists for biodiversity research

Abang Johari addressing the WCIT-IDECS) Gala Dinner held at a hotel here on Oct 5, 2023.

KUCHING, Oct 5: Sarawak welcomes biological research on its abundant and diverse biodiversity, particularly the flora and fauna, that would lead the way in conserving the “world’s richest rainforest”.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that such research should be undertaken using generative artificial intelligence (AI).

“This morning I had the privileged to meet a lot scientists when officiating the 1st Natural Science and Technology Conference 2023 organised by Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas). Their topics were all about the rich tropical biodiversity (of Borneo).


“Sarawak welcomes research on our biodiversity particularly in realm of life sciences. Perhaps with their findings, we can conserve the world’s richest rainforest in Sarawak,” he said when addressing the 27th World Congress on Innovation and Technology and 6th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (WCIT-IDECS) Gala Dinner, themed ‘Sustainable Rainforest in the Digital World’ held at a hotel here tonight.

Abang Johari also expressed appreciation to the WCIT board and all innovative minds that had convened in Sarawak to share and exchange views and knowledge, especially in the face of the global climate change crisis.

“I hope we will be able to move together with technology for the benefit of the world and mankind. I hope you can find solutions to cool the planet and mitigate carbon emissions,” he said, emphasising the pivotal role technology and innovation play in this endeavour.

Furthermore, Abang Johari extended an invitation to researchers, innovators, and experts who possess groundbreaking or new ideas on cost-effective hydrogen production.

He warmly welcomed them to Sarawak, urging them to join forces in the production of hydrogen, a critical element in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

“Please come over to Sarawak and let us produce the hydrogen,” he said.

The event also witnessed the presentation of Sarawak Digital Economy Awards 2023 to the winners namely SiliconNet Technologies Sdn Bhd, Neuon AI Sdn Bhd, Hornbill Networks Consortium Sdn Bhd, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Forest Department Sarawak, MyContent Distribution Sdn Bhd, and Sinisana Technologies Sdn Bhd.

Chief Minister of Penang Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, Minister of Utility and Telecommunications Datuk Julaihi Narawi, Sarawak Secretary Secretary Datuk amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, WCIT-IDECS co-deputy chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani as well as World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (Witsa) chairman Dr Sean Seah and CEO Dato Dan E Khoo were among those present. ā€” DayakDaily