Sarawak’s Initiative for Climate Change R&D Center

Sarawak, one of the largest states in Malaysia, has announced plans for a Research and Development (R&D) Center for Climate Change that will leverage emerging technologies to tackle climate issues.

The center, named the Sarawak Climate Change Center, aims to enhance climate change mitigation efforts and lead risk assessment and adaptation programs. Authorities claim it will become Southeast Asia’s premier hub for climate research.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg revealed these plans during a public lecture at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, where various industry stakeholders were present. He emphasized that the state is taking a proactive stance on climate change rather than just investing in new research institutes.

While the Sarawak Climate Change Center is under construction, Abang Johari mentioned that the state will implement a framework for corporate bodies to align with global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

According to Abang Johari, “Once fully implemented, this framework will strengthen investor confidence, promote responsible business practices, and solidify Sarawak’s role as a sustainability governance leader, contributing to ASEAN’s green economy and long-term resilience.”

In his keynote address, the Premier discussed the center’s operations, suggesting the integration of blockchain technology and artificial intelligence (AI). He referenced the Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint from 2024, which will feature blockchain-enabled carbon markers to help companies achieve their sustainability goals. With AI, the state will explore resource management and disaster prediction opportunities, developing talent for emerging technologies.

In addition to blockchain and AI, the blueprint also focuses on renewable technologies and eco-tourism biotechnologies to support environmental sustainability efforts.

“As a resource-rich and diverse state, we continue to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility,” said Abang Johari. “Through digital transformation, renewable energy, and low-carbon solutions, Sarawak is shaping a future of progress and opportunity.”

Recently, Malaysia has intensified its use of emerging technologies for innovation and tackling long-standing issues. In mid-February, the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) adopted AI and blockchain to combat fraud, highlighting their efficiency and reliability.

Currently, Malaysia is experiencing an influx of foreign investment in its local ecosystem to promote adoption. Companies like Microsoft and Google are competing for market share, as Malaysia implements robust frameworks to guide service providers’ operations.

UN Recognizes Vietnam’s Digital Transformation

In related international news, the United Nations acknowledges Vietnam as a key player in the global digital transformation arena, praising its prior achievements and innovations.

UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology Amandeep Singh Gill expressed the organization’s recognition during a discussion with Vietnam’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Dang Hoang Giang. Gill mentioned Vietnam’s advancements can be attributed to its significant strides in AI and blockchain technology.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Vietnam leads in both regional and global adoption rates for emerging technologies. One report ranks Vietnam highest for decentralized finance (DeFi) adoption, housing several Web3 unicorns.

Numerous Vietnamese AI firms, such as FPT, VinAI, and Viettel, are gaining recognition in the region, while semiconductor manufacturing revenues are at record highs.

Vietnam’s R&D centers, staffed with skilled researchers, have earned the country a spot in the UN Expert Group and the Policy Dialogue on AI Governance mechanisms.

In response to Gill’s compliments, Giang highlighted that Vietnam’s digital advancements result from various government initiatives aimed at achieving economic growth and transitioning into a “modern industrialized country” by 2030.

Giang stated that Vietnam aspires to reach high-income status by 2045, relying on innovation and technology. He emphasized the need for enhanced support from the UN in achieving these goals.

To start, Giang suggested that the UN could assist with policymaking, funding, and technical support for digitalization efforts. Additional areas for potential support include capacity-building for locals and fostering public-private partnerships in semiconductor development.

While the UN views Vietnam as a partner in digital transformation, the local landscape actively adopts next-generation technologies. The national blockchain strategy aims to incubate 20 global Web3 brands while establishing a legal framework to support the ecosystem.

Furthermore, plans are in place to train over 1 million residents in AI and blockchain technologies, focusing on data storage and identity verification systems. To reinforce its commitment, Vietnam is strengthening bilateral ties with the United States to enhance AI and Web3 technologies, particularly in creating a more resilient semiconductor supply chain.