KUCHING: Sarawak has a clear vision and direction in its journey towards becoming a forward-looking, self-determined and future-ready region.

Member of the Senate Senator Dato’ Ahmad Ibrahim said the recently concluded Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Convention reaffirmed the state’s clarity of purpose and development direction.

“The convention was not just about presentations or policies. It was about clarity of direction.

“What stood out to me is that Sarawak is not reacting to global changes. We are anticipating and positioning ourselves ahead of them,” he said in a statement on Sunday.

Dato’ Ahmad highlighted that one of the most significant takeaways was the strong focus on human capital development in the face of rapid technological change, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence and automation.

“We must be honest, the future of work is changing very fast. Jobs will evolve, some will disappear, but many new opportunities will emerge.

“The key is whether our people are prepared. That is why continuous upskilling and reskilling is no longer optional. It is essential,” he stressed.

On Sarawak’s economic direction, he noted that the state’s commitment to renewable energy and green transition places it in a strong strategic position regionally.

With targets such as 60 per cent renewable energy by 2030 alongside expansion into green hydrogen and carbon management, the Senator said Sarawak is positioning itself not merely as an energy producer, but as a clean energy leader in ASEAN.

Dato’ Ahmad also pointed to the Sarawak Gas Roadmap and regional industrial development plans as critical drivers of long-term economic strength.

“What is important is that development is not concentrated in one area. Through the establishment of regional development agencies and strategic hubs, we are ensuring that growth reaches all parts of Sarawak, from urban centres to the rural and interior regions,” he said.

On the broader political and governance context, Dato’ Ahmad reiterated the importance of stability, unity and the firm defence of Sarawak’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

“In a time of global uncertainty, what Sarawak needs, and what GPS continues to provide, is stable leadership, clear policies and unity across all levels. At the same time, we must remain firm in safeguarding our rights and autonomy as enshrined under MA63,” he said.

Reflecting on the overall tone of the GPS Convention, he described it as grounded and action-oriented.

“The message I take away is simple. Sarawak is not just talking about the future. We are implementing it, step by step, with real plans, real investments, and real outcomes.

“Global challenges are real, but Sarawak’s response is equally real, focused on local action, unity and long-term strength,” he said. -UKASnews