KUCHING (Dec 2): Sarawak’s push for digitalisation is beginning to show significant results, with key strategic sectors – including education, agriculture, infrastructure development, and the economy – recording marked improvements following the implementation of the state’s digital policies.

The Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) reported Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg as saying the introduction of the digital economy has opened opportunities for Sarawakians to grow, broaden access to education, and add value to the state’s resources.

In the education sector, he commended Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) for its Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (SRBN) initiative, which has enabled rural schools to access learning beyond the classroom and improve student performance.

“We have seen improved academic results at SMK Datuk Temenggong Oyong Lawai Jau in Long San, and its students are now continuing their studies at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak,” he said at SDEC’s fifth anniversary celebration on Monday night.

“They truly appreciate our efforts through SRBN, which has given them access to platforms such as Khan Academy, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This demonstrates the success of the initiative.”

Abang Johari said digitalisation has also supported infrastructure development, including the construction of elevated roads that help reduce long-term maintenance costs.

He explained that the Public Works Department (JKR) has used computer-based highway and road modelling simulations to determine the best engineering solutions for roads built on soft soil.

“As a result, we are constructing elevated roads in Lingga, Kota Samarahan to Sri Aman, and in Baram, Miri, Marudi, Mulu, Long Panai, Long San, and Long Lama up to Limbang – areas with extremely soft soil. These elevated structures will lower maintenance costs in the long run.

“Although initial construction costs are higher, long-term maintenance costs will be reduced, and the roads will be more stable. This is one of the achievements of using digital simulation in road development,” he said.

The Premier also highlighted the role of digitalisation in transforming the agricultural sector, which has boosted yields, introduced Sarawak to the global stage through innovations such as the KETEQ.AI chip, and supported the production of renewable energy – all of which have contributed to the state’s economic growth.