By Amanda L
KUCHING, Aug 23: Sarawak is aiming to develop its own artificial intelligence (AI) models through “Otak AI Sarawak”, shifting the focus from AI adoption to homegrown AI development.
Speaking at the launch of AI for Makers: Borneo Makers Festival 2026 here today, Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS) chairman Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the initiative’s main goal was to develop AI models designed and built by Sarawakian talent.
“Our main goal is to drive the development of local AI models, designed and developed by Sarawakian talent,” he said.
The initiative is being developed through TEGAS’ first collaboration with the Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre (SAIC), focusing on the development of “Otak AI Sarawak”.
Len said TEGAS would provide training and build an ecosystem to equip local talent with the skills needed to use and develop AI technology sustainably and independently.
The programme will focus on increasing AI awareness and literacy, developing practical skills through the AI Builders Club, and establishing TEGAS as an AI Talent Hub for knowledge-sharing with industry experts.
The AI Talent Hub will also seek to attract international experts, researchers and engineers, with their expertise to be shared with local talent through technology transfer and mentorship.
TEGAS will also organise the Bootcamp Build & Monetize to train participants to develop AI-based solutions and commercialise their innovations.
Len who is also the Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, said the growing adoption of AI was also creating new career opportunities, particularly in cybersecurity.
“AI is driving current labour market trends and empowering AI makers, while opening up rapidly growing career opportunities, particularly in cybersecurity,” he said.
The AI for Makers programme features AI talks, forums, practical workshops, an AI exhibition and experience zone, as well as the AI Code Hackathon and AI Create Creative competitions for school and university participants.
A total of 20 teams involving 60 participants are taking part in the programme, which is targeting more than 5,000 visitors over two days.
The programme is being held as part of efforts to strengthen Sarawak’s AI talent pipeline and create an ecosystem capable of developing and commercialising locally built AI solutions. — DayakDaily
