KUCHING, 17 OCTOBER 2024 – The Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) signed six pivotal Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with prominent technology companies and strategic partners on the second day of the International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak 2024 (IDECS 2024), held at the Startup Village Stage, Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). These collaborations aim to advance Sarawak’s digital economy by leveraging cutting-edge technologies to empower universities, startups, and local entrepreneurs as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In line with Sarawak’s vision for a sustainable, circular economy, these partnerships underscore the state’s commitment to fostering technological innovation while promoting responsible growth.
The MOUs signed by Dato Ir. Ts. Sudarnoto Osman, Chief Executive Officer of SDEC, and representatives of the respective companies were witnessed by YB Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak. The agreements with Dynamik Technologies Sdn Bhd, Leave A Nest Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Yayasan Hasanah, Ventura Interactive Sdn Bhd, Sarawak Influencers Council (SIC), and Borong (formerly known as “Dropee”) are designed to provide local startups and MSMEs with essential resources, including access to digital platforms, investment opportunities, and mentorship programs.
“These MOUs mark a significant milestone in Sarawak’s efforts to nurture local talent, foster innovation, and advance the digital economy. By integrating digital solutions with sustainable practices, these collaborations will enhance commercialisation efforts, fuel entrepreneurial growth, and promote green technologies. This aligns with the AI for Sustainable Development theme showcased at IDECS 2024. The diverse partnerships will provide universities, startups, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs with essential resources and support to succeed in the digital era, driving economic growth and positioning Sarawak as a pioneer in sustainable, innovative development in Southeast Asia,” said YB Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
Dynamik Technologies Sdn Bhd and Leave A Nest Malaysia Sdn Bhd will play a crucial role in expanding Sarawak’s technology & innovation ecosystem. Collaboration with Dynamik Technologies from Brunei will focus on the enhancement of technology adoption, knowledge & skills transfer, and capacity development for innovators and researchers in the Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Digital Economy while facilitating cross-border collaboration between Sarawak and Brunei companies, innovators, and institutions. Collaboration with Leave a Nest Malaysia will enhance Sarawak Digital Innovation Ecosystem (SDIE), connecting startups and university spin-offs to technology, entrepreneurship and commercialisation programs while identifying relevant markets and industries to support their growth across all stages.
Sarawak’s commitment to sustainability is underscored in the MOU with Yayasan Hasanah, which aims to support social enterprises focused on delivering positive community impacts and environmental sustainability. This partnership reflects Sarawak’s holistic approach to inclusive economic progress that balances growth with social responsibility.
Ventura Interactive Sdn Bhd and the Sarawak Influencers Council (SIC) are set to elevate Sarawak’s presence on the global stage. The MOU between SDEC and Ventura Interactive emphasises business collaboration and creating opportunities to grow Sarawak’s Digital Creatives Sector through initiatives like global networking and expanded market access. On the other hand, SIC is focusing on promoting the growth of the Digital Economy in Sarawak and elevating local talents through strategic initiatives such as e-commerce ventures, digital promotion of Sarawak’s tourism landscape, and organising new media education workshops and courses.
The partnership with Borong (formerly known as “Dropee”) aims to strengthen the digital capabilities of Sarawak’s MSMEs through eCommerce solutions and the Digital Niaga initiative. As part of this collaboration, Borong has committed RM75 million of SME financing to support the digitalisation of SMEs in Sarawak, reinforcing the value of this strategic alliance. The initiative will provide digital training, funding identification, and onboarding programs to help local businesses scale and expand their reach in the global marketplace.
Dato Ir. Ts. Sudarnoto Osman emphasised the significance of these partnerships. “These MOUs represent a critical step in Sarawak’s journey toward becoming a digital economy powerhouse. These collaborations are about more than just technology — it’s about empowering the community through digitalisation. By integrating digital solutions, we are equipping our local businesses with the knowledge, support, and funding to thrive. AI plays a key role in optimising operations, driving innovation, and enhancing decision-making, but most importantly, we are ensuring that our local talent leads this digital transformation, laying the foundation for lasting impact for future generations.”
As these partnerships develop, they are expected to catalyse Sarawak’s economic growth, drive innovation across multiple sectors, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the state’s digital ecosystem. By fostering an environment that supports technological advancement and sustainable practices, Sarawak is positioning itself as a leader in Southeast Asia’s digital revolution, paving the way for local entrepreneurs and MSMEs to thrive not only regionally but also on the global stage.