Premier: DBKU, MBKS must embrace digital economy vision to stay relevant
KUCHING (Aug 1): Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) and Kuching South City Council (MBKS) must align their policies and operations with Sarawak's digital economy vision.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stressed local authorities must evolve in line with rapid technological advancements.
'I urge DBKU and MBKS to embrace this aspiration so they remain significant and relevant to the digital needs of the people.
'They must transform their engagement and public perception, including in terms of policy, delivery, monitoring, and evaluation,' he in a speech for the 37th Kuching City Day celebration at Pangkalan Sapi, Petra Jaya today.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas delivered the speech for the celebration themed 'Smart City of Unity, Embracing A Sustainable Future'.
Abang Johari pointed out that Sarawak is positioning itself as a key digital economy player in the region, with the Sarawak Digital Economy Action Plan 2030 (SDE 2030) laying the groundwork for inclusive, responsible, and sustainable socioeconomic growth.
'To achieve this goal, the Sarawak government launched the SDE 2030, which is a key component of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). It aims to shift the entire economy and society from a conventional economy to a technology-driven sustainable economy,' he said.
He said the plan focuses on five strategic pillars — economic growth priorities, digital business development, public sector and services transformation, frontier technology adoption, and strengthening digital economy fundamentals including governance, cybersecurity, talent development, digital skills, research, and entrepreneurship.
He said the government places strong emphasis on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and 5G to boost productivity, improve efficiency, drive innovation, and enhance quality of life in Sarawak.
Highlighting the importance of city councils in this transformation, Abang Johari said DBKU and MBKS can play a vital role in implementing the state's Sustainability Blueprint 2030.
'On May 29, we launched the Sustainability Blueprint 2030, which outlines 10 strategic thrusts, 48 strategies, and 111 actionable plans to drive Sarawak's transition to a green and low-carbon economy.
'Sarawak is determined to lead Malaysia and the region in climate action and sustainable development. This is not Sarawak's journey as this is our contribution to the future generations.
'As for DBKU and MBKS, both of the cities can play a critical role in implementing the Sarawak Sustainable Blueprint 2030 by aligning the policies, urban planning and community programmes. This blueprint may also be integrated into Local Development Plans, Low-Carbon Initiatives in Urban Areas, Waste and Water Management Innovations, Community Education and Engagement, Nature-Based and Carbon Projects, Green Economy and Innovation, and Digital and Smart City,' he said.
Abang Johari also underscored the importance of community involvement in local council initiatives, saying citizens have a role in shaping their surroundings.
'We should participate in local council events, provide feedback, and support the local authority agenda. By doing so, we help shape the future of our neighbourhoods.
'Local authorities are the backbone of a well-functioning community. Without them, our towns and cities would not run smoothly. Let us appreciate their efforts and work hand-in-hand with them to create a better living environment for everyone,' he added.
The Premier also congratulated Kuching North Datuk Bandar Datuk Hilmy Othman and Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng for their leadership, and thanked all DBKU and MBKS staff for their dedication towards making Kuching a liveable and loveable city.
He also paid tribute to former mayors whose leadership contributed to the city's progress: Datuk Song Swee Guan, Datuk Chan Seng Khai, Datuk Chong Ted Tsiung, Datuk James Chan, Datu Dr Yusoff Hanifah, Datu Awang Ehsan Joini, Datuk Madehi Kolek, Datu Abdul Hamid Yusof, Datuk Abang Atei, Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai, and Datu Junaidi Reduan. Abang Johari DBKU lead MBKS
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