KUCHING, 25 SEPTEMBER 2024 – The International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak 2024 (IDECS 2024) returns for its 7th edition with the forward-looking theme, “AI for Sustainable Development: Navigating the Green and Circular Future.” Taking place from 16th to 17th October 2024, at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), the event will be inaugurated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Hosted by the Sarawak Government, IDECS 2024 is jointly organised by the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), and Sarawak Information Systems (SAINS). The two-day conference will highlight how artificial intelligence (AI) can drive the green and circular economy, focusing on key topics such as fostering green technologies, promoting circular supply chains, and encouraging collaborative partnerships for sustainable innovation.

According to Deputy Chairman of IDECS 2024 and Chairman of SDEC Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani, the event brings together global leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss how AI can drive sustainable development by promoting more environmentally friendly economic models.

“IDECS 2024 aims to provide a platform to explore AI’s potential in building a future economy that minimises waste, restores natural ecosystems, and fosters sustainable development. By leveraging AI, we seek to encourage collaborative and innovative approaches to a greener and more circular economic model, setting new benchmarks and inspiring action both locally and globally. With its abundant natural resources, proactive sustainable development initiatives, and highly skilled workforce. Sarawak is uniquely positioned to lead global discussions on sustainability, and the State Government’s commitment to harnessing advanced technologies further strengthens its role in promoting a sustainable future,” said Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani.

Among the keynote speakers are:

• Dr Jordan Nguyen, a leading biomedical engineer, presenting on “Future with AI”
• Scott Bales, fintech innovation leader, delivering the opening keynote on “Smart Cities and the Future of Urban Living”
• Amanda Johnstone, AI technologist and communicator, speaking on “The Rise of Women in STEM and Soft Power” at the SHETECH Asia Forum.

Lead Secretariat of IDECS 2024 and SDEC Head of Research and Product Development Dr. Khairul Hafiz Sharkawi stated that IDECS 2024 emphasises actionable solutions and partnerships, aiming to translate discussions into real-world applications that benefit both the environment and society. By promoting AI-driven strategies aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the conference seeks to empower communities to spur digital economy, inspire businesses to adopt greener technologies, and drive innovations that create jobs, strengthen industries, and attract investment in sustainable practices.

IDECS 2024 is anticipated to welcome 2,000 participants including speakers, delegates, and exhibitors comprising industry experts, policymakers, innovators, and academicians around the globe as well as members of the public. It is proudly sponsored by Huawei, Telekom Malaysia, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), SMD Semiconductor, Sarawak Media Group (SMG) and Grab.

For more conference information or to register as a delegate, exhibitor, or sponsor, visit idecs2024.com.my or email enquiry@idecs2024.com.my. Follow IDECS 2024 Facebook and LinkedIn pages (IDECS 2024) and Instagram page (idecs2024) to stay updated with the latest news, programme, and happenings.