KUCHING – Sarawak’s Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has underscored unity and technological innovation as the twin foundations of the state’s prosperity, urging communities to remain cohesive while embracing the digital economy.
Delivering his remarks at the Welcoming Dinner of the Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) Triennial General Assembly, the Premier said Sarawak’s success today is rooted in a long-standing approach of “fusion,” where people of diverse ethnicities and faiths work together under a shared vision.
He explained that this unity has allowed Sarawak to govern according to its own “mould,” blending leadership and community into a single framework. “Every Sarawakian, no matter their background, stands united to safeguard and advance Sarawak. When one side feels a pinch, the other feels it as well,” he said.
The Premier added that political cohesion has been equally vital, enabling leaders to focus on development rather than internal disputes. This supportive environment, extending to grassroots communities, ensures that leaders reinforce one another and maintain stability.
At the same gathering, Abang Johari also addressed the importance of technology in shaping Sarawak’s future. He emphasised that global economic progress is now driven by semiconductors, automation, drones and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“Today’s warriors no longer depend on weapons. They use chips, semiconductors and drones. This is the new battlefield that we must master,” he declared, linking his vision to Sarawak’s Post-COVID Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which identifies digital innovation as a key economic frontier.
He urged young Sarawakians, particularly the Dayak community, to strengthen their analytical and critical thinking skills to complement technological adoption. While AI can accelerate processes and provide information, he stressed that human intellect ultimately determines outcomes.
To support this transformation, the Premier highlighted ongoing government investment in education and infrastructure. Scholarships, free education schemes and technical training facilities are being expanded to prepare youth for the demands of the digital economy.
He also connected Sarawak’s digital initiatives to environmental stewardship, noting that early adoption of digital analysis helped identify sustainable resource management strategies. This led to the development of hydrogen energy, positioning Sarawak as a regional leader in clean energy.
“Today, we are at the leading edge of generating hydrogen from our water resources, and Sarawak stands shoulder to shoulder with other developed countries. We have even been recognised by the Japanese Government as a global frontrunner in new energy,” he said.
The takeover of the Bakun Dam from the Federal Government has further strengthened Sarawak’s control over its energy management, enabling direct participation in ASEAN Grid planning. This milestone reinforces the state’s role in regional sustainability efforts.
The Premier expressed confidence that Sarawak will not only excel nationally but also establish itself as a major player within ASEAN. He assured that the benefits of these initiatives will be shared across communities, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
The event was attended by prominent figures including Tan Sri Dato Sri William Mawan Ikom, Ir Cristopher Gira Sambang, Datuk Stephan Mundaw, and Dato Alice Jawan, alongside other distinguished guests.
Through unity, political stability and strategic investment in technology and clean energy, Sarawak aims to achieve sustainable prosperity and global competitiveness by 2030, with its youth at the forefront of this transformative journey.
