Abang Johari (front, second left) watches a demonstration by a robot at one of the exhibits during the IDECS 2025. – Sarawak Public Communications Unit photo
KUCHING (Oct 22): Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will represent Sarawak at the 47th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur next week, where he is slated to present the state’s strategies and achievements in renewable energy and semiconductor development.
He had been invited by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to highlight Sarawak’s policies in these emerging sectors during the summit on Oct 27.
“The Prime Minister has asked me to share Sarawak’s policies in two key areas of the new economy — clean energy and semiconductors, particularly AI (artificial intelligence), which plays a crucial role in advancing various economic sectors,” he told reporters after officiating the International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2025 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Abang Johari said Sarawak’s approach to technological innovation emphasises a balance between automation and human judgement, noting that while AI enhances productivity, it cannot replace human reasoning.
“We cannot rely 100 per cent on AI because it lacks common sense. AI is merely a process based on user input that accelerates problem-solving. In Sarawak, we use both humans and AI.”
The Premier also revealed that the state is developing its own chip design capabilities under the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, and had earlier discussed potential collaboration with representatives from Taiwan.
“I encourage visitors in Kuching to visit the IDECS exhibition, which showcases the latest technologies across various fields. Such exposure strengthens our efforts to drive development through technology,” he added.
Commenting on the announcement that United States president Donald Trump will attend the Asean Summit, Abang Johari welcomed the visit, expressing hope that it would give the American leader a clearer understanding of geopolitical development in the Asia-Pacific region.
“Hopefully, he will better understand the geopolitical developments taking place in the Asia-Pacific region,” he said.
He expressed confidence in Anwar’s ability to engage with the US leader, especially on economic issues stemming from Washington’s tariff policies.
“I leave it to the Prime Minister’s wisdom to navigate the discussions, as the investment climate has been affected by the tariff measures.
“I trust Asean leaders will discuss wisely to overcome the economic challenges arising from these policies,” he said.
Trump is expected to arrive in Malaysia this Sunday to attend the 47th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed Trump’s participation during a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today after inspecting preparations at the International Media Centre and International Broadcast Centre.
The 47th Asean Summit, themed ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, will be held from Oct 26 to 28, with participation from top leaders of the 10 Asean member states and key dialogue partners including the US, China, Japan, and India.