KUCHING, 1 DECEMBER 2025 – The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak, graced the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) 5th Year Anniversary Celebration, marking a significant milestone in the Sarawak’s journey towards a progressive, inclusive, and digitally driven economy.
The celebration, held at the Ranyai Ballroom, The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching, gathered more than 500 guests, including The Honourable Datuk Liwan Lagan, Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication (Telecommunication); The Honourable Datuk Dr. Annuar Bin Rapa’ee, Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development I (Education and Innovation); the Sarawak State Financial Secretary; and other dignitaries.
The event was also attended by Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Morshidi bin Abdul Ghani, Chairman of SDEC; Dato Ir. Ts. Sudarnoto Osman, Chief Executive Officer of SDEC; members of the SDEC Board of Directors and senior management; ecosystem partners; government representatives; members of the media; and SDEC staff.
As the leading digital economy powerhouse in the region, SDEC celebrates its fifth anniversary while continuing to play a central role in accelerating digital adoption, fostering innovation, and supporting Sarawak’s transition towards a high-income digital economy, in line with the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint and the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
In his address, the Premier of Sarawak highlighted SDEC’s purpose and mandate:
“SDEC was created to prepare Sarawak for the future. Its mandate was not merely to deliver programmes, but to build the digital backbone that modern economies depend on. This includes secure digital identity, trusted data platforms, artificial intelligence readiness, strong digital governance and systems that inspire confidence.”
SDEC Chairman also highlighted the company’s progress in digital infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent development. Key initiatives introduced over the years include the Sarawak Multimedia Authority Rural Tower (SMART600) programme, Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (MySRBN) connectivity roll-out, digitalisation support for MSMEs, and various talent development and innovation programmes that have benefitted communities across the Sarawak. He remarked:
“Yet here we are at our fifth anniversary celebration. Five years of commitment, progress, and heart. Through every challenge and every triumph, SDEC has risen to the occasion and delivered.”
“We began with the fundamental right of every Sarawakian, the right to be connected. Today, more than 94.5 percent of populated areas have internet access, bringing life-changing connectivity to rural communities.”
Looking ahead, SDEC’s strategies continue to align with the three pillars of PCDS 2030 – economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability. The Premier emphasised.
“Digitalisation strengthens each pillar, improving public services, enhancing industry capabilities and building a society where every Sarawakian can participate meaningfully in the digital economy.”
Over the next five years, SDEC will focus on initiatives that accelerate economic growth, bridge the digital divide, and foster a culture of innovation, ensuring Sarawak flourishes as an inclusive and forward-thinking digital economy.
The anniversary celebration also recognised the dedication of SDEC’s staff and the collaborative support of partners, agencies, and industry players who have contributed to Sarawak’s digital transformation journey. As the Sarawak enters its next phase of digital growth, SDEC reaffirmed its commitment to driving meaningful, inclusive, and innovation-led impact.