KUCHING: As Sarawak embraces digital economy, it must also use digital technology to enhance and preserve its culture, heritage, traditions in the context of a creative economy.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said as Sarawak strove for this new economy, it would not forsake its traditions and cultural heritage.
“We uphold the livability and affordability of the environment we live, work, and play in by leveraging on technology guided by our knowledge and traditions,” he said during the inaugural Good Design Work (GDW) at Swinburne University of Technology, Sarawak Campus here yesterday.
He believed good design was key to address challenges in areas such as housing, culture, heritage, resource, ecotourism and creative economy.
“It is hope that this gathering can bring about creative ideas which infuse our preferred way of living, our traditions, cultural heritage, and our unique know-how into the products we design, the buildings and cities that we construct and the system that we build, while ensuring sustainability and access for all,” said Abang Johari, his text of speech read by Education and Technological Research Assistant Minister Dr Annuar Rapaee.
He said the reliance on conventional, resource-based economy for Sarawak’s development could no longer sustain its desired growth into the digital future.
“Instead, we are witnessing unprecedented growth in digital economy, which not only includes big data, automation and artificial intelligence, but also creative economy, which includes building games and animation,” he pointed out.
He also said Sarawak would promote itself and its products through digital media, and further personalise tourist experience through the use of virtual reality and augmented reality.
“In tandem with the aspiration of the state government, and the support of institutions of higher learning such as Swinburne, Curtin University, businesses, industries, professional bodies, each contributing their areas of expertise, I am certain that Sarawak is in good hands in the journey towards new economy for all.”
Meanwhile, Swinburne Sarawak CEO and deputy vice-chancellor Prof John Wilson said as the world shifted into Industry 4.0, the imbalance of economic, social, cultural and environmental imperatives became even stronger.
“Each day, people across the globe face an array of challenges that stems from varying levels of isolation, poverty, cultural loss, and access to technology.
“As the gap becomes increasingly wider, the design of our digital culture, creative economy and build environment becomes more important,” he said.
“As a university that places innovation, technology, and science at the forefront, we have an important role to play in preparing the leaders of tomorrow and decision-makers to contribute to a sustainable future.”
The GDW, which runs until July 17, is jointly organised by Swinburne Sarawak and Curtin University Malaysia.
