KUCHING: The development of human capital equipped with technological expertise and knowledge in science must be prioritised to ensure Sarawak continues to grow as a dynamic and advanced state.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the younger generation must continue to be guided, including in mastering technology, to accelerate economic growth and the state’s development.

“If we want to become dynamic and advanced, we need to guide our young people, bring them closer to technology, and we can grow faster.

“Our economic growth will become faster because we do not need to reinvent something that already exists, as all the data is already available.

“What is important is that we access our data and information to develop our state,” he said.

He said this during the officiating ceremony of AI For Makers: Borneo Makers Festival 2026 at TEGAS Digital Village here on Sunday.

He added that Sarawak’s youth must be encouraged to pursue studies in technology and science-related fields to produce human resources capable of contributing to the state’s development.

According to Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari, a country’s wealth does not depend solely on natural resources, as the capability of its human capital also plays an important role in determining progress.

He cited Singapore as an example of a small country that has successfully become one of the wealthiest nations in Asia through the strength of its people, as well as foreign workers, in mastering various economic sectors.

Therefore, he said Sarawak has an advantage in terms of resources, but these resources must be leveraged with knowledge and expertise.

“We want our children to become knowledgeable and capable. That is why we provide free higher education through 64 programmes for Sarawakian students,” he added.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, who is also TEGAS Chairman, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, Deputy Minister of Transport, who is also TEGAS Deputy Chairman, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), who is also TEGAS Secretary, Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, who is also TEGAS Treasurer, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, members of the TEGAS Board of Trustees, TEGAS Chief Executive Officer Udin Bujang, and other distinguished guests. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photos: Hazrin Sunaini
Translator: Uilson Ng