Latest news with #AbangJohariTunOpeng
New Straits Times
17 hours ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Emerging technologies could help combat digital threats
KUCHING: Emerging technologies, particularly in microchip development, could provide effective safeguards against digital threats such as deepfakes, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. He said he had learned that ongoing research is focused on developing artificial intelligence (AI) technology to counter digital scams and deception. "While legal frameworks are important to curb the threats, technological solutions are also on the horizon. I read about a chip that will solve this problem," he told a press conference at the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 here, today. He said the chip is being designed to detect manipulated content by distinguishing between what is genuine and what is not. Abang Johari added that advances in information technology have heightened the need for balance and vigilance in managing the growing influence of AI and digitally fabricated content media. "In this world, there must always be a natural check and balance, like day and night. It's the same with technology. While deepfakes represent a dark side, the solution will come, and it may very well lie in this chip," he said. Meanwhile, in his speech, the Premier urged media practitioners to reaffirm their role not just as storytellers, but as steadfast guardians of public trust. He stressed that this trust must be upheld in every decision, particularly in the use of technology, as AI becomes increasingly prevalent in newsrooms. "Let us not be dazzled by the capabilities of AI to the point that we lose sight of our human values. Let's ensure that technology remains our servant, not our master. Do not erase the very qualities that make our profession vital to democracy," he said. More than 700 participants took part in the second edition of SMeC 2025, which began today. The two-day event features a distinguished line-up of local and international media and communication experts who will share their insights on adapting to the digital and AI era.
The Sun
18 hours ago
- The Sun
Emerging tech like microchips could counter deepfake threats
KUCHING: Emerging technologies, including advanced microchip development, could play a crucial role in combating digital threats such as deepfakes, according to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Speaking at the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025, he revealed that ongoing research is exploring AI-powered solutions to tackle digital deception. 'While legal measures are essential, technology offers another layer of defence. I've read about a chip designed to detect manipulated content by verifying authenticity,' he said. Abang Johari emphasised the growing need for balance in managing AI's influence, noting that technological advancements must be met with equal safeguards. 'Just as nature has checks and balances, technology must too. Deepfakes may be a dark side of innovation, but solutions like this chip could counter them,' he added. Addressing media professionals, he urged them to uphold public trust amid increasing AI integration in newsrooms. 'AI should assist, not dominate. We must preserve the human values that make journalism vital to democracy,' he stressed. Over 700 participants attended SMeC 2025, a two-day event featuring insights from global media experts on navigating the digital and AI era.
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Sarawak offers scholarships for security studies at UK's Sandhurst
KUCHING: The Sarawak government is ready to offer scholarships to Sarawakians interested in pursuing a career in security to further their studies at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the move is part of the state government's efforts to develop the talents of its young people to meet security needs. "At least they have the discipline... discipline and also new security theories. It's not that we want to establish our own army, but it's a matter of talent training. They can then work with the police, with the army, or work with us at UKPS (Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit)," he said. Speaking at the Sarawak Command Net (SCNET) launching ceremony in conjunction with the Eighth Anniversary celebration of UKPS here tonight, he said the establishment of UKPS was not intended to take over security powers from the federal government but rather to complement the state's needs. "Security powers are under the federal government. We are only helping with the existing level so that we feel safe with coordination between security agencies under the federal government," he said. Abang Johari said Sarawak has a very long coastal area, and this presents a challenge to be fully monitored by security agencies under the federal government and needs the assistance of the state government. He said the state also has many rivers that are not under the control of federal enforcement agency, and this matter can be addressed through the establishment of the Sarawak Coast Guard, which was established in 2019. "Our work now is to help us all make Sarawak a peaceful and prosperous area," he said. According to him, the launch of SCNET is an initial step for Sarawak to form a more sophisticated security communication network as part of the initiative to defend the state's security. "We can work with responsible parties for the sake of the sovereignty of Malaysia… this is what is important. The sovereignty of the country of Malaysia," he added. - BERNAMA
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Premier: Ngiling Bidai brings Sarawak's multiracial communities closer
Rodiyah (fifth left), Mohd Naroden (fourth left), Awla (sixth left) and others roll up the mat to mark the closing of the Gawai Dayak celebration. KUCHING (July 1): 'Ngiling Bidai', a ceremony to mark the closing of the Gawai Dayak celebration, serves as an important platform to strengthen the unity of Sarawak's multiracial communities, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The Premier pointed out that at the same time, the ceremony—steeped in tradition—also enhances efforts to preserve the Dayak culture and ethnic heritage in Sarawak. 'This ceremony is not just a closing ceremony for Gawai Dayak as it is also a symbol of appreciation for the harvest, a spirit of kinship, and the strength of unity among the multi-racial communities in Sarawak,' he said in a Sarawak Public Communications Unit report. The text of Abang Johari's speech was delivered by Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee at the closing ceremony of the Gedong District Gawai Dayak celebration 2025, held here on Sunday. In his speech, the Premier said the involvement of 55 villages under Gedong District in the celebration showed the community's high level of cooperation and commitment in making the event a success. He also called on all parties to continue fostering the spirit of tolerance, mutual respect and cooperation for the development of a prosperous and peaceful state. During the ceremony, guests also participated in prayers to pay respect for Abang Johari's wife, the late Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma'ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, who passed away on June 23. Among those present were event organising chairman Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais, Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris, and Samarahan Resident Mohd Irwan Bahari Bujang. Abang Johari Tun Openg community Gawai Dayak multiracial Ngiling Bidai
The Star
25-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Affin Bank can catalyse sme growth in strategic sectors, says Abang Johari
KUCHING: Affin Bank Bhd is well-positioned to catalyse the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Sarawak by offering targeted financing, digital transformation support, and non-financial capacity building aligned with the state's strategic economic sectors. Premier of Sarawak Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the bank should also deepen its role in empowering SMEs through inclusive initiatives and financial literacy programmes, in line with Sarawak's aspiration to become a high-income, innovation-driven economy. "For non-financial support, through programmes like AFFIN BizChat, the bank can provide SMEs with access to business resources, market insights, and best practices, empowering them to innovate and grow sustainably. "Affin Bank can prioritise lending and advisory services for SMEs in sectors central to Sarawak's diversification, such as agro-based ventures, tourism, manufacturing, technology, and the green economy,' he said. The text of his speech was read by Sarawak Financial Secretary Datuk Seri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar at the launch of Affin Bank Jalan Satok Branch, here, today. Abang Johari said the bank's continued presence and expansion in the state should be matched with a deeper commitment to supporting the SME ecosystem, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas that are pivotal to Sarawak's economic transformation agenda. Looking ahead, he said Affin Bank has the potential to evolve into not only a leading national bank but also a regional financial powerhouse by embracing cutting-edge innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI)-powered financial assistants, automated loan approvals, digital wallets and open banking platforms. Meanwhile, Affin Bank president and group chief executive officer Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah said the branch expansion marks a step forward in broadening the bank's reach and enhancing its capabilities to better serve retail, SME, and corporate clients through specialised solutions in trade finance, advisory and transactional banking. "By deepening our presence in this vibrant community, we are not only improving accessibility but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses to reach their full potential,' he added. - Bernama
