Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari urges private sector to innovate and reinvent to support the state’s economic transformation.
KUCHING: The private sector must continue to reinvent itself and innovate to complement Sarawak’s economic transformation agenda and capitalise on new opportunities arising from the state’s investments in infrastructure and connectivity, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said businesses should emulate the approach taken in the redevelopment of Wisma Elica here by reimagining existing assets into value-added projects that contribute to the state’s long-term economic growth.
“The private sector also has to reimagine and reshape its services individually. We have to be creative and now, it is easier for us to calculate and envision what will happen through the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).
“However, we must be able to judge the data generated by AI, particularly when planning for the future. We have a lot of buildings that can be transformed,” he said when officiating the grand opening of Wisma Elica here today.
Abang Johari said the Sarawak government is reinvesting its increased revenue in key infrastructure projects, including the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, state-owned airline AirBorneo and the coastal highway, to enhance connectivity and strengthen Sarawak’s competitiveness as a destination for investment, tourism and quality living.
“Today’s opening symbolises confidence in our future. It reflects the willingness of the private sector to invest in our economy, create new opportunities and contribute meaningfully towards the long-term development of our state,” he said.
The former hotel building was redeveloped into Wisma Elica, which now houses Malaysia’s first voco by IHG Hotels and Resorts and Care Collective, East Malaysia’s largest senior wellness centre.
The development integrates hospitality, wellness and lifestyle services under one roof through the adaptive reuse of one of Kuching’s longstanding hospitality landmarks.
