KUCHING: An international investment of more than RM7 billion in the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) campus in Tanjung Embang is expected to create high-skilled job opportunities, while calling on Sarawak to strengthen local workforce development to meet the needs of future technology industries.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the inflow of investments in emerging technology sectors, including AI and satellite communications, requires a workforce with specialised expertise that is able to adapt to global industry developments.

"This requires a skilled workforce, because I once asked SoftBank, which came from far away, from Tokyo to Sarawak, 'Why choose Sarawak?'

"He said that, apart from the energy and water supply that we have, he also believes Sarawak has a good free education policy and is confident that Sarawakians can be trained and equipped with the skills required," he revealed during the 28th Sarawak Skills Convocation Ceremony on Thursday.

He added that the planned investment in Tanjung Embang involves the development of an AI campus based on Quantum AI technology that is closely linked to satellite communications.

"They will invest in Sarawak through the development of an AI campus in Tanjung Embang, bringing in capital exceeding RM7 billion to the area.

"This investment is based on Quantum AI technology, which is related to satellite communications," he said.

Accordingly, he stressed the importance of strengthening the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) ecosystem, as well as strategic collaboration with institutions of higher learning, to produce more skilled workers in emerging technology fields.

He said human capital development must go hand in hand with the inflow of investments so that Sarawakians are not merely observers of the growth of high-tech industries, but have the opportunity to participate directly in these sectors.

He explained that the provision of a local workforce with suitable skills is crucial to ensure that the benefits of international investment are translated into quality job opportunities and sustainable economic development for Sarawakians. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Jonnie Kiew
Photos: Muhammad Rais Sanusi
Translator: Uilson Ng