Sarawak Premier Envisions Locally Developed AI Model ‘DeepSAR’

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12 Feb 2025
The Borneo Post

KUCHING (Feb 7): Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has outlined his vision for the state to develop its own artificial intelligence (AI) model, dubbed ‘DeepSAR’ (DeepSarawak), tailored to Sarawak’s unique digital landscape and resources.

Speaking at the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) Lunar New Year Dinner 2025 at a major hotel here tonight, he shared his aspiration for a locally founded AI system that could consolidate and process Sarawak-specific data, fostering innovation and global connectivity.

“I hope we can have DeepSAR – DeepSarawak – founded by a Sarawakian with content typically found in Sarawak, where it becomes another digital conversation between Sarawakians and the world,” he said.

While acknowledging that this remains an aspiration, he expressed confidence that with the right expertise and educational initiatives, DeepSAR could materialise by 2030, 2035, or 2040.

Abang Johari emphasised that for such an AI model to thrive, Sarawak must first establish comprehensive connectivity across the state.

He commended the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) under the leadership of general manager Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng for its efforts in enhancing telecommunications and network infrastructure.

He also highlighted global technological advancements, particularly in chip design and data transmission, which are crucial to Sarawak’s economic progress.

He referenced China’s strides in AI and semiconductor technology, citing the emergence of DeepSeek as a competitor to dominant players like Nvidia and OpenAI.

“Data can only be transmitted through chips, and chips are like blood in our body – they drive everything forward. That is why we are focusing on chip design to support our digital economy,” he said.

Abang Johari (centre) and other distinguished guests in a group photo.

In line with its digital ambitions, Sarawak is also positioning itself as a satellite launch hub, leveraging its strategic location on the equator.

“The Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) has identified Sarawak as the launching pad for satellites, which could be deployed via rockets, aircraft, or floating vessels – methods that are more environmentally friendly,” he said.

To realise this vision, Abang Johari has tasked Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr Abdul Aziz Dato Husain, chairman and Pro Chancellor of i-CATS University College, with collaborating with international experts in satellite technology.

He also underscored AI’s growing influence in various industries, particularly healthcare, citing developments at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak’s (Unimas) teaching hospital, where AI-equipped medical devices can diagnose conditions and recommend treatments.

“These advancements show how AI is reshaping industries, from medicine to biodiversity conservation,” he said, adding that Sarawak is consolidating data on its rich biodiversity to monetise its ecological resources globally.

Abang Johari iterated that his vision for DeepSAR aligns with Sarawak’s broader digital transformation goals, reinforcing the need for localized AI solutions.

“Maybe it won’t happen in my time, but if we build the right foundation, one day it will become a reality,” he said.

Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) general manager Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng; SMA Honourable Member Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam; Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi; and Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.