Sarawak and Huawei partner to boost digital transformation

KUCHING (March 5): The Sarawak government and Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2025 on Tuesday to advance digital transformation in the state.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the MoU builds on the strong foundation laid by the cooperation between the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and Huawei, particularly in the development of smart cities.

He was cited by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) as saying that the MoU aims to accelerate Sarawak’s digital transformation through the expansion of wireless connectivity to suburban and rural areas.

He further explained that this initiative includes modernising transmission networks to establish a scalable and intelligent infrastructure to support rapid deployment of 5G technology and future innovations.

Uggah said that both Sarawak and Huawei would advance Artificial Intelligence (AI) development by building the necessary infrastructure, fostering research, and creating AI solutions that reflect the unique needs and identity of Sarawak.

“Other objectives include developing a state-of-the-art data storage centre to enable secure data exchange and productisation, and strengthening digital talent development by equipping the local workforce with skills in AI, Big Data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and immersive technologies,” he said during the MoU signing ceremony.

Uggah added that by strengthening this partnership, Sarawak is positioning itself as a leader in digital innovation, ensuring that smart technologies continue to drive economic growth, sustainability, and greater opportunities for its people.

“I hope with this MoU, we can build a better future for the people of Sarawak — one that is more connected, inclusive, and filled with new possibilities.”

Uggah further noted that the collaboration between SMA and Huawei has paved the way for a more connected and efficient urban ecosystem, leveraging innovations in connectivity, data analytics, and intelligent infrastructure to improve public services and the overall quality of life.

Also present were Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Sarawak Deputy Ministers Datuk Liwan Lagang and Datuk Abdullah Saidol, SMA general manager Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng, Huawei senior vice president Yang Ruikai, and Huawei Malaysia chief executive officer Simon Sun.