KUCHING (Aug 8): Sarawak’s first artificial intelligence (AI) centre is expected to be established next year, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said that the establishment of the Sarawak AI Centre (SAIC) has been approved by the state Cabinet, and necessary funding would need to be allocated for its management.

“We need to allocate funds for the management of this AI centre, which will include generative AI. The exact cost is yet to be determined.

“I have also requested a workshop for civil servants to familiarise themselves with AI technology,” he told reporters when met after officiating at the Free Laptop Initiative and the 31st Sarawak Premier Special Award ceremony at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here today.

Earlier, in his speech, Abang Johari revealed that the Sarawak government plans to develop a chatbot capable of real-time translation of local ethnic languages such as Bidayuh and Iban.

He emphasised that this initiative, along with the AI centre, will enhance knowledge and innovation in the region.

“Our goal is for ‘Anak Sarawak’ to harness the power of AI and electronic devices.

“This is why we are introducing laptops first. As they become proficient, they will be able to use these devices to further their education and acquire advanced skills,” he said.

Regarding the event, Abang Johari said that the Sarawak government has allocated RM15 million to provide free laptops to students in public and private higher learning institutions.

He noted that there are approximately 35,000 Sarawakian students in public and private higher learning institutions nationwide, with around 13,000 applying for free laptops and 5,000 requesting free book vouchers.

“Although it was not promised, we decided to share our increased revenue of RM13 billion with our students.

“This will undoubtedly help them in their studies, research, and identifying the disciplines they should focus on at university,” he said.

During the event, Abang Johari also symbolically presented free laptops to 50 recipients from Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak (six), i-CATS University College (10), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (12), Universiti Teknologi MARA Sarawak (11), and Polytechnic (11).

Meanwhile, the AKPS awards were presented to 22 recipients for the 2022 assessment and 26 recipients for the 2023 assessment.