Proposed index to elevate Sarawak’s innovation landscape, to use global indicators

by · Borneo Post Online
Sagah (centre) addresses the press conference flanked by his deputies Datuk Francis Harden Hollis (right) and Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee. — Photo by Roystein Emmor

KUCHING (Nov 18): The Education, Innovation and Talent Development Ministry is proposing establishing the Sarawak Innovation Index (SARii) to elevate the state’s global innovation landscape.

Minister Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the proposed SARii will be modelled on the Global Innovation Index (GII), with similar pillars and indicators.

“It is essential for our achievements to be recognised by leading international bodies such as the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), through established frameworks like the GII.

“While Malaysia currently ranks 33rd in global innovation, there is a need to develop a distinct analysis of Sarawak’s specific innovation ecosystem,” he said in his winding up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.

He said SARii data will be evidence-based and, more importantly, audited by international entities such as the World Bank and United Nations to ensure global recognition and credibility.

Sagah said his ministry would further explore developing SARii, with an aim to launch it next year.

In a response to Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor (GPS-Lingga), he said Sarawak Skills had established a new campus in Sri Aman, offering Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) programmes in oil palm plantation, electrical, and computer systems.

He said the campus has currently enrolled 25 students in the electrical programme, with plans to expand enrolment capacity to 150 students across various disciplines.

“To further enhance its capacity, Sarawak Skills has acquired a 14-acre site in Sri Aman. This new campus will accommodate up to 750 students and offer a wider range of programmes including padi plantation and aquaculture.

“The official launch of the Sri Aman campus is scheduled for Nov 30 this year. We encourage the people of Lingga to visit the campus and explore the opportunities available,” added Sagah.

Last Friday, Dayang Noorazah had called on the state government to establish a public or private higher learning institution in Sri Aman, noting that such initiative could motivate children in the division to pursue higher tertiary education.