Tag: WCIT|IDECS 2023

The legacy of Sarawak’s dedication to fostering innovation and technology will continue to reverberate on the international stage

At the 27th World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT) and the 6th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2023, collectively known as WCIT|IDECS 2023 (the Event), the Sarawak Government reaffirms its steadfast commitment to investing in innovation and technology to pave the way for Sarawak’s transformation from a traditional economy to a modern technology-driven powerhouse.

Held on 4 to 6 October 2023, WCIT|IDECS 2023 reached a triumphant conclusion today after three days of groundbreaking discussions, visionary insights, and unprecedented networking opportunities. The Event, which saw the attendance of more than 10,000 attendees from 46 countries worldwide, brought together global leaders, tech pioneers, and innovators to explore the limitless potential of innovation and technology. In addition, the inaugural She-Tech Asia Forum 2023 served as a compelling prelude to WCIT|IDECS 2023, setting the stage for more women empowerment and representation in the field of technology.

Yang Berhormat (YB) Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah bin Ali Hasan, Deputy Premier of Sarawak delivered a resounding conclusion to the event, “WCIT|IDECS 2023 has illuminated our path towards a future where innovation and technology are the driving forces behind Sarawak’s economic growth and prosperity. Our commitment remains steadfast as we transition from tradition to modernity. Many of these ideas shared over the past few days at WCIT|IDECS 2023 will come to shape Sarawak’s journey forward, building on the state’s current trajectory to becoming not only a digital economic powerhouse in the region, but a thriving society driven by innovation and technology where our people can enjoy economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and a sustainable environment.”

Sarawak made headlines on the very first day of the event with the official announcement of the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, outlining an ambitious vision for the future of the region. This visionary blueprint underscores Sarawak’s dedication to harnessing the power of digital technology to drive economic growth, create job opportunities, and improve the quality of life for its citizens.

YB Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah added, “The Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 is a culmination of Sarawak’s concerted efforts over the past decade to transform our economy. It is our strategic roadmap to create positive impact and empower our people, and position Sarawak as an attractive investment, business and tourism destination at the international level.”

WCIT|IDECS 2023 marked the first-ever union of two leading global events in technology and innovation. The convergence of both WCIT and IDECS, which are prominent events in their own rights, aimed to address key issues relevant to our time and our tomorrows as well as tackling the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-evolving digital age.

Dr Sean Seah, Chairman of World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) said, “We firmly believe the partnerships, collaborative connections as well as debate and discussions on tech in general, and AI in particular, that have emerged from WITSA’s catalytic platform will pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive digital future. This pivotal success stands as a testament to what can be achieved when governments, industry leaders, and communities come together with a shared vision.”

Host association PIKOM Chairman Ong Chin Seong said, “After 3 days of packed content and activities, WCIT|IDECS 2023 certainly left us with things to ponder in this age of transformation. The future of technology is not about predicting what will happen, but about creating what we want to happen and realizing its full potential. Our delegates certainly benefited from the event, and we look forward to WCIT 2024. Congratulations again to the Sarawak Government, especially to the WCIT|SDEC 2023 Secretariat led by SDEC. We are delighted to partner with the state in this endeavor.”

WCIT|IDECS 2023 also marked a momentous occasion with the announcement and official handover of WCIT to the new host city of 2024, Armenia, ushering in another chapter of global innovation collaboration.

• Sarawak also launches Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 as part of its vision to become a digital economy powerhouse in the region

The Sarawak Government today officially launched the 27th World Congress on Innovation and Technology and the 6th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak, otherwise collectively known as WCIT|IDECS 2023 (the ‘Event’), two international technology events held concurrently and targeted at business leaders, senior corporate figures, government representatives, policymakers, civil society, and industry experts.

Today’s opening ceremony of the three-day Event at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCKK), Sarawak, Malaysia, saw the convening of more than 10,000 attendees from 46 countries around the world, with the convergence of the events serving as a platform for attendees to discuss, exchange knowledge, share insights, and establish a real, definite pathway forward in driving an innovation, technology and sustainability-centric business ecosystem and community, especially in the face of rapidly evolving 21st century challenges.

Present at the official launch of WCIT|IDECS 2023 was The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak.

The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, the Premier of Sarawak said, “Sarawak is at the critical juncture of our next phase of growth, and technology and innovation are key drivers to push forward our vision to accelerate economic growth, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability. To drive Sarawak’s growth, we have put in place policies and facilitate public and private collaborative efforts to drive digital transformation across the facets of our economy. One of the key priority areas for Sarawak is to fast-track the development of our digital infrastructure; after all, connectivity is key for growth, especially for us to remain on track on our digitalised economy aspirations. Ultimately, it is the people and communities that we want to benefit, and through our digitalisation efforts, we hope that this will trickle down to the Sarawakian communities that we serve, to build and create a thriving, vibrant digital and date-driven ecosystem for the future.”

In conjunction with WCIT|IDECS 2023, the Sarawak Government has also launched the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint, with the vision to transform Sarawak from conventional resource-based to an environmentally sustainable technology-driven economy and society. Under the Blueprint, digital acceleration is a key enabler to strengthen Sarawak’s economic competitiveness, create job opportunities and new generations of digital industries, as well as develop a vibrant tech sector – with the ultimate goal of developing an inclusive digital society and achieving high-income developed status for Sarawak by 2030.

Themed “Fulfilling the Promise of the Digital Age: Innovation and Technology Driving Economic Prosperity, Social Inclusivity & Environmental Sustainability” and “Advancing Digital Economy for Sustainable Development” respectively, WCIT|IDECS 2023 featured global leading and prominent thought leaders, corporate leaders, and award-winning innovators who shared topics around artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, 5G, autonomous, diversity & inclusivity, smart cities, global ICT policy, and space tech, and more specifically, how they can influence companies and communities that we know today.

Dr Sean Seah, Chairman of World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) said, “We are thrilled to see the 27th World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT) 2023 take place in Kuching, a city brimming with potential and charm. This choice reflects our ongoing mission to spotlight emerging innovation and tech hubs across the world. With the continual rapid advancement in technology, such gatherings are pivotal in fostering collaboration and ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation.”

Host association PIKOM Chairman Ong Chin Seong said, “Congratulations to Sarawak for successfully organising a world-class technology and innovation event. PIKOM is proud to be associated with the event and has galvanised our 1,000 members and its regional affiliates around the region to, directly and indirectly, support the event. Apart from the content, the networking and potential business opportunities are what drive PIKOM to arrange delegates and exhibitors to attend WCIT almost every year. PIKOM had the honour of organising WCIT 2022 in Penang and for this year, we support WCIT|IDECS 2023 as the Host Association. We would like to thank WITSA for giving Malaysia the opportunity to host WCIT for 2 consecutive years and SDEC for a great job in putting together an event of this stature.”

As a pre-event in the lead-up to WCIT|IDECS 2023, the Sarawak Government has also hosted the inaugural She-Tech Asia Forum 2023 (the ‘Forum’) on 3 October 2023. The Forum focused on women’s representation in the technology industry, addressing the gender imbalance conversation in technology as well as the challenges faced by women in the industry. The Forum also served as a networking opportunity to connect like-minded women leaders and professionals in technology, to encourage collective growth and development.

Yang Berhormat Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah, Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Sarawak said, “The inaugural launch of the She-Tech Asia Forum is a powerful statement of intent, reflecting the Sarawak state government’s fervent belief that for true progress to be claimed, there first needs to be a foundation built upon gender equality and women empowerment. We recognise a strong need to continue investing in skill enhancement and educational opportunities for women, in order to directly bridge the gender gap in the technology sector. Today, we also announced the Pledge and Bellina Roadmap, drawn upon perspectives crowdsourced from the diverse audience and participants of the Forum, which will form the backbone and set the tone for us to move the needle for the women agenda, especially in Sarawak.”

Amongst some of the most engaging presentations and key conversations during this prestigious event include:

· ‘The AI Powered Organisation’ by Mike Walsh, Futurist, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tomorrow and author of three best-selling books;

· ‘Avatar and the Future Society’ by Professor Hiroshi Ishiguro, leading Japanese roboticist and professor at Osaka University, and ATR intelligent robotics and communication laboratories;

· ‘Changing the World with Code’ by Emma Yang, Founder of Timeless, three-time Carnegie Hall performer, MIT solver, and TEDx Speaker;

· ‘She Mogul’ by Tiffany Pham, Founder and CEO of Mogul, TV personality on TLC and History Channel, and WSJ best-selling author of ‘You are a Mogul and Girl Mogul’;

· ‘Robotics, AI and the Future of Healthcare’ by Grace the Robot, the world’s foremost nursing assistant robot designed for elderly care and support, and developed by Awakening Health; and

· ‘From Efficiency to Empowerment: How AI is Reshaping the World of Work’, a CEO Forum which saw a robust discussion between panellists Catherine Lian, Managing Director of IBM Malaysia, Simon Sun Luyuan, CEO of Huawei Malaysia, Simon Bush, CEO of Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA), and Azizah Ali, COO of Microsoft Malaysia, and moderated by Philipp Kristian of Trust the Power of Digital Humanity.

The 50-day countdown has begun for two highly-anticipated international technology congresses, the 27th World Congress on Innovation and Technology and the 6th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak, collectively known as WCIT|IDECS 2023. Hosted by the Sarawak Government, the event is set to bring together visionaries, experts, and industry leaders from around the world, and is scheduled to take place simultaneously on 4-6 October 2023 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCKK), Sarawak, Malaysia.

Present today to officiate the countdown launch event of WCIT|IDECS 2023 was Yang Berhormat (YB) Datuk Haji Julaihi Bin Haji Narawi, Minister of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) Sarawak.

Speaking at the countdown launch event, YB Datuk Haji Julaihi said, “On behalf of the Sarawak Government, we are pleased to announce the countdown to WCIT|IDECS 2023. Final preparations for the Congress are underway, and WCIT|IDECS 2023 promises to set the stage for Sarawak to be a catalyst to accelerate sustainable development and economic prosperity for the businesses, communities and the nation. The convergence of both WCIT and IDECS makes the event a unique platform to bridge the gap and create opportunities to build a business environment and ecosystem driven by innovation, technology and sustainability.”

WCIT|IDECS 2023 is expected to convene more than 10,000 attendees comprising industry experts, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from more than 80 countries around the world. Already, there are prominent speakers participating from over 22 countries. The event will explore thought-provoking discussions and provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest trends, technologies and business models in the digital economy. Featuring a comprehensive programme and events comprising conferences, exhibitions, a Smart Cities masterclass, a Startup Village, a Global Leaders Round Table, business matching sessions, and a gala dinner awards night, WCIT|IDECS 2023 aims to explore various facets of the digital economy and its transformative impact on industries, business models, communities and the people.

Themed “Fulfilling the Promise of the Digital Age: Innovation and Technology Driving Economic Prosperity, Social Inclusivity & Environmental Sustainability” and “Advancing Digital Economy for Sustainable Development” respectively, WCIT|IDECS 2023 will see the Sarawak Government hosting keynote addresses, multidisciplinary plenary discussions, and networking sessions to facilitate international collaboration, knowledge and insights exchange around key topics such as artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, 5G, autonomous, diversity & inclusivity, smart cities, global ICT policy, and space tech.

“WCIT 2023 is a global platform that not only drives innovation but also stimulates investment and interest
in the tech industry,” said Dr Sean Seah, Chairman of WITSA. “In October, the trailblazers of the tech industry will be in Kuching, making Sarawak a focal point of global tech and innovation. The event will be welcoming international tech luminaries and stakeholders, and spotlighting Sarawak as a thriving hub of digital transformation.” he added.

Host association PIKOM Chairman Ong Chin Seong encourages tech players from abroad and peninsular Malaysia to take the opportunity provided by WCIT|IDECS 2023 to discover the abundant opportunity that Sarawak and Borneo in general have to offer. “PIKOM’s vision is for WCIT|IDECS 2023 to be a catalyst that will spur Malaysia’s and Sarawak’s Digital Economy to greater heights,” he said.

In conjunction with WCIT|IDECS 2023, the Sarawak Government will also launch the inaugural She-Tech Asia Forum 2023 (the ‘Forum’), which will be held on 3 October 2023. The Forum will serve as a pre-event to WCIT|IDECS 2023, with a focus on women’s representation in the technology industry. The Forum aims to address the gender imbalance within the industry, serving as an impetus in shifting the gender conversation and empowering more women’s participation in technology.

On the Forum, Malseni Jamal, Chief Operating Officer of SDEC said, “As the world shifts to an increasingly digitalised economy, empowering greater women participation in tech is key to fostering the continuous growth for our economy and social inclusivity. The need for action is critical, and all stakeholders across public and private sectors must come together to close the gender gap and create equal opportunities and platforms for women to play a role in advancing our digital economy aspirations.”

Some of the key speakers of the Congress and She-Tech Asia Forum 2023 include:

– Mike Walsh, Futurist, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tomorrow and author of three best-selling books;
– Professor Hiroshi Ishiguro, Japanese roboticist and professor at Osaka University, and ATR intelligent robotics and communication laboratories;
– Emma Yang, Founder of Timeless, three-time Carnegie Hall performer, MIT solver, and TEDx Speaker; and
– Tiffany Pham, Founder and CEO of Mogul, TV personality on TLC and History Channel, and WSJ best-selling author of ‘You are a Mogul and Girl Mogul’.

YB Datuk Haji Julaihi concluded, “Sarawak is an attractive investment, business and tourism destination, and as the host of WCIT|IDECS 2023, we continue to reaffirm our commitment to advance Sarawak’s vision to become a digital economy powerhouse for the country and region. The WCIT|IDECS 2023 platform will serve as one of the building blocks in advancing our digital economy agenda through innovation and technology, and is expected to create positive economic impact to the Sarawakian tech and startup ecosystem, through Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), business events and tourism, as well as sponsorships – which in turn will encourage greater job creation and business opportunities. Over the long-term, we want to be the go-to hub for investors looking to combine business with leisure, with the ultimate goal of uplifting the socioeconomics of the people.”

Leading global organisations such as Huawei, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), TVS, Sarawak Energy Berhad, Digital Nasional Berhad, NEC and Whale Cloud have signed on as key sponsors, Business Events Sarawak, Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC) and Maxis Berhad, among others, are supporting WCIT|IDECS 2023 as key partners. Official airline partner MAS is offering attractive discounted fares for early bird registrations.