KUCHING (Aug 19): Sarawak must accelerate digitalisation to strengthen its position in the regional market, with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) playing a key role in driving this transformation, said Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong.
The Deputy Minister of Digital said the state is guided by the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 to transform into a leading digital economy and society, driving inclusivity, sustainability, and prosperity for all Sarawakians.
“However, we all have to admit that today’s business environment is both challenging and full of potential. To grow and take our place in the regional market, Sarawak must accelerate digitalisation.
“Thus, SMEs, as major business players, play a key role in this journey,” he said before launching CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 here today.
He said bringing CTOS SME Biz Day to Sarawak was timely, as embracing digital technology is no longer optional but essential for survival and growth.
“With the establishment of the ministry in 2023, Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating digitalisation across all sectors.
“By adopting the right tools, SMEs can enhance efficiency, expand their customer base, and stay competitive. While some Sarawak SMEs are ahead, many still face challenges,” he said.
Ugak said the Ministry of Digital is committed to build a digitally empowered Malaysia where businesses of every size can thrive within a robust digital ecosystem.
“Our initiatives—from driving digital literacy to expanding access to digital tools—align closely with CTOS’s efforts through SME Biz Day.
“Like CTOS, we believe that empowering SMEs with the right knowledge, networks, and resources will ensure they remain resilient and competitive in the digital era,” he said.
Ugak also outlined several key areas SMEs should focus on to accelerate digital adoption.
“First, harness the power of digital marketing and e-commerce. Reaching your customers where they are is essential in today’s world.
“Malaysia continues to rank as the third fastest-growing market for retail e-commerce, and SMEs should make the most of this momentum,” he said.
Ugak stressed that cybersecurity must not be overlooked, noting that safeguarding sensitive data is crucial to maintaining trust and ensuring operational security.
“As we embrace digitalisation, CyberSecurity Malaysia, under the Ministry of Digital, has established the Cyber Security Academy to strengthen national cyber resilience and address talent shortages in the field through specialised training,” he added.
He further urged SMEs to make use of data analytics to strengthen business strategies and improve performance.
“With data analytics, SMEs can gain valuable insights into customer behaviour, market trends, and operational performance.
“This is the essence of Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation’s (MDEC) Data-driven Enterprise Programme, empowering businesses to make informed, value-creating decisions and be ready for the digital future,” he said.
Ugak also encouraged SMEs to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive efficiency and innovation.
“From automating routine processes to improving customer experiences, AI presents vast opportunities for SMEs.
“This aligns with the establishment of the National AI Office last year, which aims to accelerate progress through applied AI,” he said.
CTOS SME Biz Day made stops in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor this year before concluding its final roadshow here.
The selected venues reflect CTOS’s commitment to driving SME empowerment and technology adoption in line with both national and state-level growth agendas.
The Kuching leg drew over 1,000 participants, contributing to a nationwide total of more than 6,000 attendees, highlighting SMEs’ readiness to adapt and grow in the digital era.
Source: https://www.theborneopost.com/2025/08/19/accelerate-sarawaks-digitalisation-to-strengthen-market-position-says-ugak/