KAPIT – Sarawak is preparing to recalibrate its development policies to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy, with a focus on artificial intelligence, carbon trading, and renewable energy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg announced the move during the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme in Kapit, stressing the need for dynamic strategies under the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
He explained that technological advances are reshaping economies worldwide, requiring governments to adapt swiftly.
“The world today is changing so rapidly due to technological developments. That is why the government must constantly adjust development policies so that the people also benefit from these changes,” he said.
The Premier highlighted that forests, once valued primarily for timber, now hold new economic significance as carbon absorbers.
This shift opens opportunities for Sarawak to participate in international carbon trading frameworks, in line with the 2015 Paris Agreement.
“Forests are now carbon absorbers and open up opportunities for carbon trading in accordance with international protocols,” he added.
Artificial intelligence was also identified as a transformative force in governance and economic management.
Abang Johari pointed to the growing role of Large Language Models (LLMs) in reshaping administrative processes and business operations.
He noted that Sarawak is positioning itself to harness these technologies to remain competitive in the global market.
Sarawak’s unique advantage lies in its dual energy resources, combining hydroelectric power with petroleum.
This electro-petro foundation, according to the Premier, provides a strong base for new economic ventures while supporting the state’s transition towards a greener economy.
Human capital development is another priority. The Premier announced that 64 programmes under the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) are being rolled out to equip Sarawakians with skills relevant to future industries.
These initiatives aim to produce a workforce capable of meeting the demands of sectors driven by technology and sustainability.
He also emphasised that economic progress must be balanced with public health and community well-being.
The government’s approach, he said, is to ensure that transformation benefits society as a whole, rather than focusing solely on industrial growth.
The announcement reflects Sarawak’s broader ambition to integrate sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity into its development agenda.
By aligning policies with global trends in AI and carbon trading, the state hopes to secure long-term competitiveness while safeguarding the welfare of its people.
