PETALING JAYA: Seemingly inspired by China’s DeepSeek artificial intelligence model, Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg has expressed his aspiration for the state to develop its own AI model called DeepSAR (DeepSarawak).
He said the system could allow Sarawak to engage in a “digital conversation” with the rest of the world, The Borneo Post reported. However, for such a project to take off, Abang Johari said comprehensive connectivity across Sarawak must first be established.
“Maybe it won’t happen in my time, but if we build the right foundation, one day it will become a reality,” he was quoted as saying at the Chinese New Year dinner of the Sarawak Multimedia Authority.
Abang Johari’s remarks come as Sarawak continues its push for digital transformation, with plans to position itself as a regional technology hub.
He said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had identified Sarawak as the launching pad for satellites, which could be deployed via rockets, aircraft, or floating vessels – methods that are more environmentally friendly.