In recent years, Sarawak has embarked on an ambitious journey to transform into a digital economy powerhouse. Central to this transformation are the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), which play pivotal roles in driving the state’s digital initiatives. This article delves into the comprehensive efforts spearheaded by these organisations and highlights key initiatives, with a special focus on the Serian Digital Innovation Hub (DIH) and the TEGAS Digital Village (TDV).
Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA): Spearheading Digital Transformation
Established under the Sarawak Multimedia Authority Ordinance 2017, the SMA is tasked with overseeing and facilitating the development and implementation of communication, multimedia, and the state’s digital economy initiatives. The SMA’s role is crucial in ensuring that Sarawak’s digital infrastructure and ecosystem are robust and capable of supporting the state’s ambitious digital economy goals.
Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC): Catalysing Digital Growth
The SDEC was established following the announcement by Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, during the International ICT Infrastructure and Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) in 2017. Incorporated on January 22, 2018, and operational since July 2020, the SDEC drives the state’s digital economy initiatives. It aims to accelerate economic prosperity through digitalisation, synergise efforts with stakeholders, develop and commercialise new ideas, and empower the private sector.
The organisation’s core missions are as follows:
- Synergising efforts with stakeholders for a data-driven future.
- Developing and commercialising new ideas through translational research in digital technology.
- Empowering and enhancing the private sector to achieve the state’s GDP targets.
- Acting as a catalyst for an inclusive innovation ecosystem.
In paving the way for Sarawak to reach digital advancement and prosperity for all, SDEC continues to establish a wealth of digital initiatives and programs to ensure no one is left behind. Among their most ambitious projects include the following:
SME Digital Initiatives
- SME Digitise!: A comprehensive program to assist Sarawak entrepreneurs in digitalising their businesses.
- Kamek Digital: Helps entrepreneurs across Sarawak integrate into the digital space.
- GoDigital Sarawak: Provides grants for hardware and software to support business digitalisation.
Connectivity and Infrastructure
- MySRBN (Sarawak Rural Broadband Network): Enhances broadband connectivity in rural areas.
- SALURAN (Sarawak Linking Urban, Rural, and Nation): Ensures connectivity across urban and rural areas. Over 2400 SMART telecommunication towers are planned, with 512 already operational as of May 2024.
Research and Innovation
- Sarawak Digital Economy Research Grant: Encourages research and development aligned with digital economy goals.
- Centre of Excellence (COE): Engages in R&D under digital sectors, fostering collaboration between researchers, startups, and technology partners.
- 5G Technology Testbed: An open platform for exploring and developing 5G use cases.
- Sigfox Internet of Things (IoT) Testbed: Supports R&D activities for new technology or solutions utilising the Sigfox IoT Network.
Digital Economy Ecosystem: Fostering Innovation and Inclusivity
Sarawak Digital and Innovation Ecosystem (SDIE)
Established in 2019, SDIE provides services and opportunities for startups, including co-working spaces, development programs, funding, and market access. It bridges facilities such as Digital Villages and Innovation Hubs, fostering a conducive environment for local entrepreneurs. To facilitate this ecosystem, the following projects were established:
- Sarawak Social Enterprise Blueprint: Developed with the Youth Trust Foundation to support social entrepreneurship in Sarawak.
- Digital Village Accelerator: Accelerates the growth of local startups, emphasising revenue generation, market expansion, and investment potential.
Case Studies: Serian Digital Innovation Hub and TEGAS Digital Village
Serian Digital Innovation Hub (DIH)
The Serian DIH is an initiative by the Sarawak government as part of the broader Sarawak Digital Ecosystem. It aims to reduce operational costs for startups and provide a conducive environment for innovation. Key features include affordable co-working spaces, fully furnished private office suites, meeting rooms with video conferencing capabilities, and event spaces.
Serian DIH conducts various programs and workshops in collaboration with entities like MDEC, NADI, and local universities. Notable programs include the Founder’s Forge, a 6-month pre-accelerator program, and the Business Innovation Bootcamp. These initiatives enhance business operations, market outreach, and provide networking opportunities with industry experts.
The Serian DIH acts as a catalyst for local tech startups and digitalisation, contributing significantly to the local economy. It offers a safe space for prototyping and testing, building expertise in innovation and entrepreneurship. Early feedback from the community has been positive, with initiatives like educating Ramadan Bazaar vendors on QR codes and e-wallets highlighting its impact.
Future plans for the Serian DIH include expanding services like business address registration and hardware rental to provide more cost-effective solutions for startups. Addressing the reluctance of senior citizens to adopt digital tools, specific programs are being developed to train this demographic, ensuring an inclusive approach to digitalisation.
TEGAS Digital Village (TDV)
TEGAS, established in 2012, supports Sarawak’s digital economy transformation through various initiatives. The TDV offers affordable co-working spaces, hot desks, dedicated desks, office suites, and facilities like Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and an auditorium. It provides entrepreneurship and venture acceleration programs and access to the Sarawak digital ecosystem network.
TDV runs programs such as the #InnovateSarawak Speaker Series, Tech Immersion Programme, and Shell LiveWIRE Pre-Accelerator Bootcamp. These programs focus on accelerating local startups and social enterprises, providing connections with mentors, investors, and industry experts.
TDV has fostered several successful startups, including Timogah Company, an e-commerce platform for small-scale farmers, and Satok Bridge Digital, an AI solution for monitoring elephant movements. These successes highlight TDV’s role in supporting innovation and contributing to the local economy.
TDV plans to develop the second phase, called the TEGAS Lodge Sarawak, which will be equipped with 5-storey hostel accommodation, recreational park and gym facilities, wellness centre, multipurpose hall and so on, aimed at attracting international digital talents. This initiative underscores TEGAS Digital Village’s commitment to evolving and meeting the needs of the digital landscape.
Sarawak’s digital transformation is well underway, with the SMA and SDEC at the helm, driving initiatives that foster economic prosperity, inclusivity, and innovation. The Serian Digital Innovation Hub and TEGAS Digital Village exemplify the state’s commitment to building a robust digital ecosystem, supporting startups, and ensuring that no Sarawakian is left behind in the digital age. As Sarawak continues its journey towards becoming a digital economy powerhouse, these initiatives and programs will play a crucial role in shaping the state’s future.
