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KUCHING, Sept 19: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is set to launch Sarawak’s Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 during the World Congress on Innovation and Technology 2023 and International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak 2030 (WCIT-IDECS 2023) on Oct 4.
Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Julaihi Narawi emphasised that the comprehensive blueprint sets out how Sarawak will secure its future as a leading digital economy and society by 2030.
“The Blueprint builds on the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy 2018–2022, is the foundation to drive Sarawak Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and acts as catalyst to increase the efficiencies and productivity for all economic sectors, fostering economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.
“The Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 is an economic and social development plan that will benefit the public sector, businesses and the society through improved public service delivery, new sustainable business models and access to global market, new job opportunities and social wellbeing,” he said.
Julaihi highlighted this when delivering a special address titled ‘Charting Sarawak’s Digital Transformation’ at the Digital Economy Leaders’ Summit 2023 in conjunction with Smart Nation Expo 2023 held in Kuala Lumpur today.
The Blueprint, he pointed out recognises that the government plays an enabling role, with the economy driven by public and private sectors and individuals to determine ultimate measure of success.
“It is a document that will transform the whole-of-economy and society from conventional resource-based economy to environmentally sustainable technology-driven economy,” he said.
Julaihi stressed that a dynamic digital economy will require a stable and strong digital foundation including digital infrastructure, digital talents, skills and inclusivity, data governance and cyber security, research, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“The Sarawak government is ambitious about Sarawak’s digital future. Our goal is to be a leading digital economy and society by 2030. This depends heavily on a strategic partnership between government, businesses and the society.
“The government plays an enabling role by providing the legal and social framework within which the digital economy operates, aligns digital initiatives with the State development strategy, maintains competition in the marketplace, ensures appropriate investment in the foundation of the digital economy and takes actions to stabilise the economy,” he said.
As businesses create goods and services, invest in digital initiatives and drive economic growth, Julaihi said this will contribute to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and productivity, recruit households into the workforce, and provide them with salaries and benefits.
“With careful planning, commitment, partnership and focusing on delivery excellence, I am confident that Sarawak will be a thriving society driven by data and innovation,” he added.
Also in attendance were Deputy Minister of Telecommunication Datuk Liwan Lagang, Deputy Minister of Utility Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, and Permanent Secretary to the Ministry Jafri Lias. — DayakDaily
