KUALA LUMPUR,MEI, 2026 — Abang Johari Tun Openg has reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to transforming its economy into a knowledge-based and innovation-driven model, stressing that future growth must be powered by talent, technology, and intellectual capital rather than reliance on natural resources.
Speaking on the state’s long-term economic strategy, the premier emphasized that Sarawak is entering a new phase of development — one that prioritizes “brain power” as the primary engine of progress. This shift reflects the state’s ambition to remain competitive in an increasingly digital and knowledge-driven global economy.
From Resource Dependency to Knowledge Leadership
For decades, Sarawak’s economy has been heavily dependent on natural resources such as oil, gas, and timber. While these sectors have contributed significantly to growth, the premier noted that such reliance is no longer sustainable in the face of global economic shifts, climate concerns, and technological disruption.
Instead, Sarawak is now repositioning itself to become a high-value, knowledge-driven economy, where innovation, research, and skilled human capital take center stage. This transformation is aligned with broader global trends, where economies are increasingly driven by ideas, data, and advanced technologies.
Human Capital as the Core Foundation
Central to this transformation is the development of a highly skilled and future-ready workforce. The Sarawak government is investing heavily in education, training, and talent development to ensure its people are equipped for the demands of a digital economy.
Key initiatives include:
- Expansion of technical and vocational education (TVET)
- Increased access to higher education opportunities
- Skills training programs focused on digital and high-tech industries
- Long-term plans for free tertiary education for Sarawak students
The goal is to produce a new generation of professionals capable of leading innovation, driving productivity, and contributing to high-value industries.
Driving Innovation Through Technology
Sarawak is also accelerating its adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), big data, automation, and digital infrastructure. These technologies are seen as critical enablers of economic transformation, helping industries improve efficiency, reduce costs, and unlock new opportunities.
The state’s digital agenda includes:
- Development of smart infrastructure and digital connectivity
- Implementation of AI-driven solutions across sectors
- Promotion of digital entrepreneurship and startups
- Strengthening cybersecurity and data governance
These efforts are expected to position Sarawak as a regional leader in digital innovation within Southeast Asia.
Attracting Investment and Creating New Industries
By transitioning to a knowledge-based economy, Sarawak aims to attract high-quality investments from global companies, particularly in technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing sectors.
The shift is expected to:
- Create high-income job opportunities
- Diversify the state’s economic base
- Increase productivity across industries
- Strengthen resilience against global economic shocks
International investors are increasingly looking for regions with strong talent pools, stable governance, and digital readiness — areas Sarawak is actively strengthening.
Vision Under PCDS 2030
Sarawak’s economic transformation is guided by its Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which outlines ambitious targets for growth, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Under this framework, the state aims to:
- Double its economic output by 2030
- Achieve high-income status
- Enhance quality of life for its people
- Build a sustainable and green economy
The focus on knowledge, innovation, and technology plays a crucial role in achieving these long-term goals.
Balancing Growth with Sustainability
Beyond economic growth, Sarawak is also prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity. The transition to a knowledge economy is designed not only to boost GDP but also to ensure that development benefits all segments of society.
This includes:
- Reducing income inequality
- Expanding access to education and opportunities
- Promoting environmentally sustainable industries
- Encouraging inclusive digital participation
Positioning Sarawak for the Future
As global competition intensifies, Sarawak’s shift toward a knowledge-based economy represents a strategic move to future-proof its development.
By leveraging human capital, innovation, and technology, the state is laying the foundation for a resilient, dynamic, and forward-looking economy — one that can adapt to global challenges while creating lasting opportunities for its people.
The premier concluded that while the transition will take time, the direction is clear: Sarawak’s future will be driven not by what lies beneath, but by the strength of its people’s minds.
