By Antonia Chiam
“This is to ensure that Sarawak will not be left behind as most developing countries are already at the forefront of the digital economy and to ensure Sarawak is on track to be a developed region by 2030.” Abang Johari (October 4, 2023)
THE rapidly evolving tech tidal wave is quickly reshaping the world and Sarawak is riding on the crest of it. As the world races forward on the fast track of technological innovation, Sarawak keeps pace by intensifying its efforts to revolutionise the State to achieve full digital transformation by 2030. For Sarawak, the State embarked on a digital economy in 2018, with clear direction to drive its economy in achieving high-income and developed status by 2030 through digitalisation.
Guiding this ambitious journey is the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030—a visionary roadmap that serves as both compass and catalyst to propel the State into the ranks of global tech powerhouses. Spearheaded by Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the Blueprint builds upon the solid foundation of the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy 2018–2022. With a clear mission to position Sarawak as a technologically advanced economy, it aligns seamlessly with the State’s broader vision of achieving full development by 2030.
To ensure statewide digital coverage, 7,000 telecommunication towers are needed. As of March 18, 2024, as many as 3,590 towers have been erected with 1,053 more to be built and operational by the end of 2024 to provide 93.6 per cent 4G coverage. Sarawak is also expecting 5G to reach 64.8 per cent by mid-2024.
Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030
Launched on October 4, 2023, the Blueprint 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.
It addresses Sarawak’s need to adapt to the increasing reliance on digital technologies that have reshaped industries and daily lives globally, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. In doing so, it ensures that Sarawak remains competitive in the new digital era, and that its people may reap the benefits from this transformation. It also serves as a catalyst to transform not only the State’s economy but also its society, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
The Blueprint emphasises the role of digital technologies in enhancing productivity, efficiency, and overall economic output. By embracing innovations across various sectors, Sarawak aims to create a robust, diversified economy that thrives in the digital era. Through digitalisation, the State seeks to unlock new growth opportunities, boosting industries such as information and communications technology (ICT), e-commerce, and digital services. It is to transform the economy and society of Sarawak from a conventional resource-based economy to an environmentally sustainable technology-based economy.
With the hope that the implementation of the Blueprint will enable every Sarawakian, whether urban or rural areas, to participate in and benefit from the digital economy, the initiative focuses on bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to digital tools, resources, and opportunities for all. By prioritising social inclusivity, the Blueprint aims to foster greater social cohesion, ensuring that digital transformation benefits the entire population, regardless of their location or socio-economic status.
The Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 is anchored on five key strategic pillars that will drive the region’s digital transformation:
- Economic Growth Priority Areas
This pillar identifies sectors that will be central to Sarawak’s economic expansion through digitalisation. Key industries such as ICT, e-commerce, digital services, and agriculture will be prioritised for digital investments and development. By focusing on these areas, Sarawak aims to create a dynamic and competitive economy that can thrive in the global digital landscape.
- Growing Digital Businesses
Supporting digital entrepreneurship is a key focus of the Blueprint. The initiative aims to foster innovation and nurture new business models and start-ups, help businesses scale quickly and reach global markets. By providing the necessary resources, mentorship, and infrastructure, Sarawak will encourage the growth of a vibrant digital business ecosystem that will contribute to job creation and economic diversification.
- Transforming Public Sector and Services
The Blueprint also seeks to modernise government services, making them more efficient, accessible, and citizen-centric. By leveraging digital technologies, the State will streamline public sector processes, improve service delivery, and increase transparency. These advancements will enable Sarawakians to easily access government services, fostering greater trust and engagement between the public and the State.
- Adopting Frontier Technologies
To stay at the forefront of digital innovation, the Blueprint encourages the adoption of frontier technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These cutting-edge technologies will not only enhance productivity and create new economic opportunities but also position Sarawak as a leader in technological innovation, attracting investment and talent to the region.
- Accelerating Digital Readiness
For Sarawak to successfully navigate the digital transformation, it is essential to ensure that its infrastructure, workforce, and communities are fully prepared. This pillar focuses on improving digital literacy, enhancing digital skills, and providing the tools necessary for individuals and businesses to thrive in the digital economy. By prioritising digital readiness, Sarawak will build a resilient, skilled workforce capable of adapting to and driving technological advancements.
Anticipated Outcomes
Several outcomes are expected from this Blueprint. By 2030, it envisions that all Sarawakians will have seamless access to high-speed internet. This connectivity will empower citizens to engage in a range of activities, from education and healthcare to business and entertainment, driving greater digital inclusivity across the State.
The digital economy is projected to generate between 39,000 and 48,750 new high-paying jobs, particularly in the ICT and digital sectors. This surge in job creation will not only provide career opportunities for a skilled workforce but also significantly increase household incomes. With the digital economy expected to contribute at least 20 per cent to household earnings, this will be a key driver of economic prosperity for Sarawakians. With the digital economy expected to contribute at least 20 per cent to household earnings, this will be a key driver of economic prosperity for Sarawakians.
A robust pipeline of job-ready graduates will emerge, thanks to upskilling and reskilling programmes aligned with industry needs. Through enhanced Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and university programmes, Sarawakians will be equipped with the advanced digital skills necessary to excel in the digital economy. The Blueprint also envisions a transformative leap for Sarawak’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with 80 per cent of small businesses in Sarawak expected to embrace digitalisation. This digital upskill will empower small businesses with the tools, technology, and connectivity needed to thrive in the digital economy, unlocking new growth opportunities and enhancing their competitiveness on a global scale.
The digitalisation of MSMEs is expected to be a major contributor to the overall success of the Blueprint. To further cultivate a dynamic ecosystem of digital innovation and entrepreneurship, the Blueprint aims to establish 500 high-tech startups, transforming Sarawak into a leading hub for innovation and technological advancement. This thriving technology sector will serve as a foundation for the State’s digital economy, creating jobs, attracting talent, and fostering a culture of innovation.
Beyond its shores, Sarawak aims to attract a 50 per cent increase in ICT and digital investments by 2030. Platforms such as InvestSarawak will play a critical role in driving this growth, fuelling innovation, attracting new technology-driven businesses, and enhancing the State’s position in the global digital economy.
More than Technology
Ultimately, the Blueprint stands as more than just a set of guidelines, it represents a bold and comprehensive roadmap for Sarawak’s future. It is not just about technology; it is about shaping a society that is digitally empowered, inclusive, and sustainable. As Sarawak evolves from a conventional resource-based economy to a technology-driven one, the State aims to set new standards in innovation, productivity, and social well-being that will see it on track to becoming a technological powerhouse in the region.
The content featured here is an excerpt from the book “Rise of Sarawak: Abang Johari’s Era of Transformation”, published by Sage Salute Sdn Bhd.
