Sarawak charts bold path to digital future with education-led innovation
Sagah says the ministry is cultivating problem solvers rather than rote learners, emphasising that the digital economy needs thinkers, doers and innovators – the qualities the ministry is determined to nurture. – Photo by Galileo Petingi
KUCHING (May 15): The Sarawak Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development is intensifying efforts to reimagine the education system with a focus on critical thinking, creativity, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) proficiency and digital literacy.
Minister Dato Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the ministry is cultivating problem solvers rather than rote learners, emphasising that the digital economy needs thinkers, doers and innovators – the qualities the ministry is determined to nurture.
'Technology alone cannot lead us. It is our ethical, inclusive, and future-oriented leadership at all levels that will shape how these tools are wielded,' he said during the opening ceremony of the 'Sarawak Leadership Talk' held at the Sarawak Skills Kuching premises here today.
Sagah added that the event, themed 'Pioneering Progress—Leadership in Shaping Sarawak's Digital Future', was timely as it brought together visionary minds to reflect, reimagine, and realign our collective path toward a digital and knowledge-driven Sarawak.
'Leadership, in the context of today's rapidly evolving world, demands more than vision—it demands action, adaptability, and the audacity to innovate.
'In Sarawak, we are no longer content with catching up. We are now leading the charge in charting our own digital destiny. We envision a Sarawak where digital transformation uplifts every community, data empowers governance, and innovation becomes a shared culture.'
In view of this, he pointed out that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has launched bold, strategic initiatives that reflect Sarawakians' aspirations.
One of the key initiatives, Sagah said, is the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy (2018–2022) which laid the groundwork for this transformation.
'With 47 strategic actions across nine sectors – from smart agriculture to digital government – we have catalysed a state-wide digital shift.'
Other initiatives include the Centexs Digital Academy and the Digital Village, which empower local youth and start-ups with the tools, training, and ecosystem needed to thrive in a digital economy.
'Another initiative is the Integrated Talent Development Agency (INTA), under my ministry, which has been pivotal in aligning the state education system with industry needs,' said Sagah.
'Through collaboration with local universities, industry players, and international partners, we are creating a future-ready workforce.'
He added that the Digital Inclusivity Programme ensures that rural and remote communities are not left behind through initiatives like smart classrooms, e-learning platforms, and connectivity expansion.
Adding on, he said the establishment of Sarawak ID, a digital identity platform, and open-source data frameworks are set to transform how citizens interact with government services – in a transparent, efficient, and people-centric way.
'These are not just projects; they are building blocks for a digital-first Sarawak that are equitable, competitive, and resilient.
'As we look ahead, we must ask ourselves, 'How do we pioneer progress?' The answer lies in partnership. We must foster stronger ties between the government, academia, industry, and civil society. We must create spaces for innovation to thrive and allow our young leaders to lead,' said Sagah.
Among the guest speakers at the event were Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) general manager Dato Dr Anderson Tiong; Sarawak AI Centre chief executive officer Professor Patrick Then; Temasek Polytechnic Singapore director Tang Ming Fa; and Silicon Net Technologies Sdn Bhd general manager Hii Saan Chieng, along with the moderator John Chung Zu An.
Also present were Sarawak Skills Group of Learning Institutions executive director Hallman Sabri; Commonwealth Association for Leadership Malaysia president Yap Li Ling; ministry permanent secretary Adana Jed; Sarawak Skills Management Council secretary Maznah Dasmi, i-CATS University College vice-chancellor Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi; and the event's organising chairman Dr Gabriel Wee. . STEM digital education Roland Sagah
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Edric Ong: Sarawak's art emissary to the world
Edric is one of many responsible for making Sarawak better known throughout the world. AMONG some Sarawakians, past and present, who have been responsible for making Sarawak better known throughout the world is Edric Ong, a scion of one of the state's established families. He himself is a fifth generation Ong, whose forefathers had served and been honoured from the time of the Brookes. Born in Kuching on April 12, 1953, Edric was educated at St Thomas' School, and spent his first year undergoing studies for an agricultural subject at Serdang College before opting for a Bachelor's Degree in Architecture at University of Singapore where he graduated in 1977. After the compulsory state-government stint at the Public Works Department (JKR), he joined the Malaysian Associate Architects for a period and undertook many projects with them. He set up his own architectural practice, under Edric Ong Architect, but in 1986, decided to devote full time to his passion for the arts, fashion design and the promotion of Sarawak's heritage cultural arts especially in the field of textiles, specialising in the Iban' Pua Kumbu textile and founded the Society Atelier Sarawak in 1993. It is nigh impossible to detail out Edric's achievements; when I had asked for it for my research for this column, I was given a list that had filled 16 A4 pages! So where to begin? Edric founded Eon Company in 1983; pre-empting Malaysia's national car distributor EON by a year. But then, his was a partnership whereas EON was a 'berhad' (public limited) company. He still uses that name today. Besides being the president of Society Atelier Sarawak, Edric has held various other prominent positions in national and international organisations: World Crafts Council (Asia Pacific) as advisor past senior vice-president; Asean Handicraft AHPADA as president; World Eco-Fibre and Textile (WEFT) Forum as executive director; Crafts Council of Malaysia as exco member since 1998; World Batik Council as exco member since 2007; Unesco-AHPADA Seal of Excellence Handicrafts, founder and jury member; Unesco Specialist/Expert on Crafts, Textiles and Architectural Conservation, founding member; Asean-Japan Design Council, as exco member, and; Unesco Paris and Unesco-Asia Pacific, as consultant. Edric (seventh left) representing Malaysia at the World Crafts Council-Asia Pacific Board, in this photo taken at Galeri Petronas Kuala Lumpur in 2015. Edric is also a renowned fashion designer with a long list of highly-acclaimed fashion shows held all over the world—from Kuala Lumpur to India, Italy, Korea, Japan, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia, Thailand, England, France and USA. He has also curated, exhibited, organised and lectured throughout the world on subjects that the Unesco has deemed him to be an 'expert and specialist' in—from woven textiles to natural dyes, from eco-tourism resorts to ethnic handicrafts. Edric has also authored and published four books: 'Sarawak Style' with photography by Luca Invernizzi (re-titled 'Living in Sarawak' for the USA edition) in 1996, with two reprints; 'Woven Dreams' – Ikat Textiles of Sarawak (2000); 'Pua – Iban Weavings of Sarawak' (1986); and 'Malay Houses of Kuching, Sarawak' (1983). Besides these, he has contributed features and articles of arts, culture and architecture to other publications, specifically 'Encyclopaedia Malaysia', 'Encyclopaedia on Dress and Costume' (UK), and 'The Guide to Sarawak' (2012). Photo shows the cover of Edric's book, 'Sarawak Style', published in 1996. Among his other passions and pet projects have been the conservation of historical buildings and a number of significant cultural projects for government agencies. 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Photo shows the tall house, designed by Edric for the Sarawak Cultural Village, his 'pet project' since 1986. — Photo courtesy of STB Although he has been actively involved in all these projects and they have formed the major part of his life since 1983, Edric has also devoted most of his personal time and endeavours pursuing a highly spiritual goal as well. Born into a very staunch and highly respected Buddhist family, his forefathers had been the custodians of many Chinese temples in Kuching for four generations. In the early 1980s, Edric's elder sister Edrea became a 'born again' Christian, followed by his parents, Ong Kee Bian and wife Tan Lee Kheng. Edric himself converted to Anglican in the mid-1980s and by 1996, he was elected the inaugural president of the Anglican Diocesan Youth Council in the Diocese of Sarawak and Brunei, a position that he held till 2001. He continued to be fully involved in the youths, then the provincial synods and today, is still an active lay reader at St Faith's Church where he delivers regular sermons. His faith has taken him to places like Ba Kelalan, Buduk Aru and other remote reaches to preach the gospel of Christ. In recognition of his many achievements and works in both Sarawak as well as on the national and international fronts, Edric has been honoured by the following awards: Pegawai Bintang Sarawak (Officer of the Star of Sarawak); Australia Culture Award; Medal of Honour, World Craft Council 2024; Aid to Artisans Advocate Award 2006; Seal of Excellence for Craft Products (Unesco) 2001-2024; Japanese G-Mark for Good Design Award in Lifestyle/Home Accessories; London Fashion Week Award – 2022, 2023 and 2024; Aspara Fashion Week Award 2024; Malaysian Designer of the Year Award 2009; STYLO Kuala Lumpur Fashion Fest Heritage Award 2008; Mercedes Benz/Stylo Asean Fashion Award – Global Fashion Influencer 2016, and; Malaysian National Non-Governmental Organisation Award 2007. Costumes and authentic local ethnic fashion designed by Edric were also commissioned and used in three international feature films shot in Sarawak: 'Farewell to the King' in 1987 with Nick Nolte in the leading man; 'The Sleeping Dictionary' in 2000 with Jessica Alba as the leading lady; and 'The Intended' in 2012 with Janet McTeer. (From right) Alba, with fellow cast members Michael Langgi and Bob Hoskins in a scene of the 2000 Hollywood feature, 'The Sleeping Dictionary'. Alba's costumes were designed by Edric. His many travels to promote Sarawak in all his projects, be they in exhibitions, curated shows, fashion extravaganzas, or in the field of local arts, crafts and culture, had brought him to the attention of many famous public figures in politics, arts and the entertainment industry. In recent times, he met with and befriended famous actress Ali MacGraw (of 'Love Story' fame) during two of his tours at the Sante Fe Folk Arts Festival in New Mexico, USA. Edric, seen here with MacGraw at the Sante Fe Folk Arts Festival in New Mexico in 2019. Recently in Paris for the 'Revelations Biennale Paris 2025', he had met with and spoken with French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron. When asked about his 'personal best and proudest project', Edric did not hesitate to reply that it was the Sarawak Cultural Village at Damai in Santubong. 'Designing the masterplan, main buildings and individual ethnic community houses that involved travelling to the interior parts of Sarawak to research Iban, Orang Ulu longhouses, Bidayuh round-house and reviving the Melanau 'Rumah Tinggi'. 'I am proud of the Damai Hilltop suites as well, as it was a contemporary adaptation of Sarawak architecture, the round 'Baruk' suites, the Malay suites and the longhouse 'biliks'.' On those who had inspired and mentored him through the years, he continued: 'There are many, including the late Datuk Lucas Chin, the late YM Raja Fuziah Raja Tun Uda, the late Dr Clare Brett Smith (Aid to Artisans USA), Imai Toshihiro of Japan and Jasleen Dhamija of India. 'The person I owed most to was my father, Ong Kee Bian, a good and faithful servant of the Lord, loving husband and father. 'He had nurtured my interest in flora and fauna, encouraged my endeavours into art like woodblock print, clay sculpture, embroidery and ikebana. 'He took me into the interiors of Sarawak—into the Iban and Orang Ulu longhouses and others.' During his leisure down-time, Edric can be seen around town, in other fellow artists' homes and studios, or wandering the less-trodden paths upcountry or into more remote areas, in search for the expert artisan or craftsman who could well be the last surviving person who is still practising his 'dying' art. He would also be promoting lesser known artisans' works, or helping to guide them seek new avenues where they can either sell their handcrafted products, or help them with more pro-active and creative ideas. His hobbies? He reads, listens to music, and watches a movie or two for relaxation. His other interests in the culinary arts as well as in music have also seen his versatility resulting in the formation of the Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak, formed in 2019; and the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) in 1997. The latter, now into its 27th year, was co-founded by Canadians, Randy Raine-Reusch and Robert Basuik, as well as Edric's brother, yours truly. My final question to Edric: 'What made you decide to spend your life to promote Sarawak's arts and crafts?' His reply: 'As a fifth-generation 'Peranakan Chinese' in Sarawak, the love and appreciation for our Sarawak arts and crafts are so much entrenched in our Ong family. 'Sarawak arts, in all aspects, are the most diverse and richest of heritages among all in Malaysia!' Edric's creativity, talent and versatility have cast a giant shadow over the arts and crafts scene in Sarawak since 1983. His persona and international status has been made and he is now well-known in the corridors and annals of Unesco, as well as in countless other international bodies where the mission and vision are to promote the world's ethnic arts, crafts, music and architectural heritage. His name, in the promotion of Sarawak in those specific fields, has been permanently etched and is well entrenched for future generations to come. * The opinions expressed in this article are the columnist's own and do not reflect the view of the newspaper.
Borneo Post
31-05-2025
- Borneo Post
The O&G story: What next after the joint declaration?
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (left) and Premier of Sarawak uk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg exchanging the documents on the joint declaration, signed in Putrajaya recently. — Photo courtesy of the Office of Premier of Sarawak WILLIAM Shakespeare's famous line, 'All's well that ends well', from the play of the same name, takes on a complex meaning when applied to the oil and gas (O&G) joint declaration. Still, Sarawakians are proud and delighted to commemorate this milestone as a significant turning point in the state's O&G story. While it might appear to acknowledge a satisfactory resolution, the agreement also implicitly acknowledges the disturbing procedures and compromises, leading to this so-called 'positive outcome' or 'happy ending'. And so, what next? The declaration's 'happy ending' might mask a path of questionable decisions and compromises before the two contending parties arrived at the joint declaration. The line, thus, becomes a point of debate and discussion, prompting audiences to consider what truly constitutes a successful resolution and the ethical costs involved in achieving it. Challenging question Imagine being presented with a challenging question on a Cambridge HSC General Paper examination that requires careful consideration of the possible long-term effects of the newly-signed O&G agreement between Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur. The question challenges us to analyse the ramifications of this agreement and to provide an analytical trajectory of the potential paths for the state and the O&G sector. Students in Form 6 and university undergraduates in public policy and government should engage in this exercise to assess their understanding of the subject content, and their ability to critically connect it to the current socio-political context. They should be up for the challenge! This makes us question if we really understand the intricacy of the issue at hand. In retrospect, it compels us to examine if our sentiments and limited viewpoints have impeded our capacity to conduct a fair and impartial analysis of the situation. Setting the context is obviously the right starting point and proceeding from there to view rising expectations and interlocking implications that would follow, is a natural course to expect. Complicated bargains The recently-inked agreement establishing operational jurisdiction for O&G activities between Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) is a start in the right direction, but it is unlikely to entirely fulfil both entities' objectives and expectations. It is anticipated that ongoing negotiations and adjustments will be necessary to reach a truly mutually agreeable operating framework. The agreement demonstrates a willingness to collaborate and share resources, but the complexities surrounding revenue-sharing, operational control, and future exploration rights may still pose challenges. Generally speaking, resource agreements with high political and financial stakes – like the one aimed at resolving the O&G dispute between Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur – are complicated bargains. Even though the signed declaration may include crucial issues like income-sharing, regulatory power, and production-sharing, we need to acknowledge that Petronas and Petros may have inherent differences in priorities. For example, Petros would want a higher proportion of the revenue from O&G for Sarawak's development, while Petronas is devoted to striking a balance between national duty and profitability. The ink is dry on the joint declaration, but expectations are high on how soon the O&G would truly turn a page. The line of enquiry raises the question – what happens next? This pact might be a landmark, but it is also the starting line. Navigating shifting power politics, volatile prices, and the ever-present pressure for decarbonisation means the O&G industry faces a future that is as challenging as ever. How effectively will this signed declaration translate into tangible definers of progress, or will it need to be revisited and reviewed from time to time? These are pertinent questions that challenge us to look beyond today. Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the next chapter is unwritten, and the stakes may be high. The Prime Minister and Premier of Sarawak with federal and state leaders posing for a photo-call after the historic signing of the joint declaration. — Photo courtesy of the Office of Premier of Sarawak Other considerations There may be other considerations that need to be addressed to allow the agreement to be transacted effectively, and to create a conducive environment for future cooperation to be promoted. Such considerations may involve making joint investments to facilitate technology transfer in the local O&G sector and build local capacity, establishing robust and transparent mechanisms for dispute resolution, to putting in place rigorous environmental protection policies throughout the O&G value chain. Additionally, maintaining social peace and sustainable development will require ensuring that local communities affected by O&G operations are included in the long-term agenda, and that they are to receive equitable benefits. Effective management of these social challenges requires a genuine 'give and take' approach in the allocation of resources and opportunities. Navigating this requires open channels, continuous dialogue from all of us – among the federal government, Sarawak state government, Petronas, Petros, and the local communities. For Sarawak, invalidating the Petroleum Development Act (PDA) 1974 is a complicated legal and political issue. The Sarawak state administration sees it as a possible, but drastic, measure to reclaim more authority over its O&G resources. The contention is based on the belief that the PDA is intruding into Sarawak's constitutional rights and thus, watering down the state's rightful portion of revenue and ownership of its natural resources within its territory. But such a move would spark an extended legal contest with the federal government and would have devastating impacts on the national O&G industry. As such, before taking this path, Sarawak must explore and have access. The Sarawak administration sees invalidating the PDA 1974 as a possible, but drastic, measure to reclaim more authority over its O&G resources. — Bernama photo Crucial shift point Some critics view the joint agreement as a shift point, which sets the groundwork for a more just and sustainable partnership. Notwithstanding, it remains to be said that the O&G agreement still requires good faith and continued vigilance to ensure its long-term success and mutual advantage. Ultimately, the success of the signed declaration will be gauged by its ability to improve the life of the people of Sarawak, as well as to contribute to the progress and prosperity of the country. The joint declaration on O&G represents a move towards greater cooperation and a more equitable distribution of wealth and opportunities. It does show that the federal government is willing to discuss and give Sarawak more power over its resources and independence. This negotiated arrangement to address Sarawak's concerns about its O&G rights is significant within the broader context of devolution under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 63), and it should not be viewed in isolation of other socio-political dynamics. Beyond the historic joint agreement, it is hoped that the Kuala Lumpur-Kuching cooperation will serve as the basis for future agreements and legal discourse that, rather than being adversarial, uphold the spirit and letter of MA63. However, the true impact of the joint declaration will depend on its implementation and how the modifications to Sarawak's revenue-sharing, regulatory authority, and operational domain are defined. Sarawak in advantageous position A closer examination reveals that Sarawak may have secured a more advantageous position, although both sides are likely touting the agreement as a win-win. Interestingly, a shift in the power dynamic is apparent with Sarawak's increased control over its O&G resources, which may be achieved through greater revenue-sharing, decision-making power in exploration and production, and participation in the value chain. As Sarawakians, we would like to view it as a decisive victory for our state, and we recognise that its long-term economic effects and the details of its implementation must follow suit. Equally gratifying to us is that initial indications suggest the joint agreement is a significant step towards greater autonomy and resource control for Sarawak. Sarawak's greater control over its hydrocarbon resources is the primary factor contributing to its advantage. Sarawak can avoid depending on federal funding by actively participating in the lucrative O&G industry and producing a sizeable amount of revenue for the state through Petros. This increase could improve the standard of living of Sarawakians by funding the development of infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other important areas. Sarawak can avoid depending on federal funding by actively participating in the lucrative O&G industry and producing a sizeable amount of revenue for the state through Petros. Sustainable, equitable collaboration Discerning critics will concur with me that further discussion is necessary in several crucial areas to reinforce the Kuala Lumpur-Sarawak joint declaration on O&G in Sarawak. Clarifying the definition of 'net revenue' and putting in place transparent, mutually agreed-upon accounting practices are crucial to avoid disputes regarding revenue sharing. Sarawak's role in overseeing O&G operations, including enforcing environmental rules, must be strengthened to ensure that resources are used responsibly. Investing in Sarawakian talent development in the O&G sector through focused education and training programmes would give power to the local communities and make the industry more sustainable. Lastly, to avoid problems and keep the collaboration strong and productive, there should be a clear way to resolve disputes that includes specific steps and deadlines. Although we commend Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak for their willingness to collaborate and pool resources, there may still be 'gaps' due to the intricacies of revenue-sharing, operational control, and future exploration rights. Neither side should lose sight of this. Given this, the joint declaration should be regarded as a transitional stage that aims to establish the framework for a more sustainable and equitable collaboration. Amidst the signed declaration, Petronas appears to be devoted to striking a balance between national duty and profitability. — AFP photo Secure Petros' position However, to guarantee its long-term success and mutual gain, both parties must maintain their vigilance and act in good faith. The declaration's actual effectiveness will ultimately be determined by how it affects Sarawakians' quality of and the country's general prosperity. Petros has secured a favourable bargain. This stems from several considerations. First, the power balance shifted from one heavily federally dominated to one of state dominance as a result of the mutual understanding, which gives Sarawak increased authority over the extraction, development, and production of O&G resources inside its borders. This includes greater control over operational choices, profit-sharing, and direct access to its natural resources. Additionally, the deal enables Sarawak to develop its O&G industry knowledge and capabilities, generating jobs and promoting technological development in the state. Sarawak can strengthen its position and ensure future prosperity by ensuring that future development is in line with its nuanced needs and priorities rather than being limited by federal interests. This can be achieved by having a defining say in resource management decisions. * Toman Mamora is 'Tokoh Media Sarawak 2022', recipient of Shell Journalism Gold Award (1996) and AZAM Best Writer Gold Award (1998). He remains true to his decades-long passion for critical writing as he seeks to gain insight into some untold stories of societal value. MA63 oil and gas PDA Petronas Petros sarawak
