File photo shows Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Johari Abang Openg welcoming Anuar during a recent courtesy call to the Premier on advancing Sarawak’s evolving digital economy and reinforcing MDEC’s commitment to supporting the state’s digital progress.
KUALA LUMPUR (March 30): The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) reaffirms Sarawak’s role in shaping Malaysia’s digital future, with chief executive officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil emphasising that the state is a national priority in the country’s digital transformation journey.
In an exclusive interview with The Borneo Post, Anuar described Sarawak as a ‘vital driver’ in realising Malaysia’s digital economy aspirations, especially as the nation approaches the final year of the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP) and lays the groundwork for the next chapter under 13MP.
“Every single Malaysian state has its own strengths and advantages — for example, Johor for its Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, Penang for its established semiconductor sector and Sarawak through its Sarawak Digital Economy 2030 and rapidly expanding digital public infrastructure vision,” said Anuar during the interview.
“MDEC has been engaging closely with developmental agencies and the private sector in the various states to explore how we can collectively drive state-level transformation, foster local innovation and create long-term, sustainable economic opportunities.
“These states are key components of MDEC’s long-term focus to ensure the foundations are in place to meet Malaysia’s target of the digital economy contributing 25.5 oper cent of GDP by the end of 2025.”
The Premier (fourth right), Anuar (fourth left) and the delegation during the recent courtesy call.
During the current quarter, MDEC has established offices in Penang and Johor, with Kuching set to follow next quarter through a collaboration with the Digital Ministry.
The office will function as a local ‘nerve centre’ to coordinate digitalisation programmes, support SME transformation and attract high-value digital investments. It will also play a crucial role in driving talent development and emerging technology adoption in partnership with local institutions and industry players.
“Sarawak’s ongoing digital efforts have already begun to take shape and bear fruit through initiatives such as the Borneo Transitioning Industrial Cluster and the state’s AI-powered infrastructure pilots,” said Anuar, adding that MDEC’s support goes beyond policy discussions, extending to hands-on guidance and capacity-building programmes tailored to the state’s specific needs.
“Our initiatives serve to make digitalisation practical and impactful — from deploying AI-enabled traffic systems and smart surveillance to supporting over a thousand SMEs in their digital readiness journey.”
MDEC’s work also includes cultivating local talent with in-demand skills in artificial intelligence, data analytics, blockchain and automation — capabilities aligned with the state’s vision for a tech-driven economy.
“Sarawak’s leadership in renewable energy, combined with its digital ambition, creates a unique platform for innovation,” said Anuar. “We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the state to realise this vision and as a long-term partner.”
With Sarawak’s Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 in full motion, the collaboration between MDEC and the state is expected to intensify in the weeks and months ahead.
“There is still much work to be done,” Anuar added. “But with the right partnerships and shared determination, Sarawak can be at the forefront of a truly inclusive and future-ready digital economy for Malaysia.”