Innovation without integrity is dangerous, says Premier Abang Johari

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, July 29: Innovation without integrity is dangerous, which is why all government-linked agencies in Sarawak are being equipped with integrity compliance units and procurement systems are shifting towards open, traceable digital platforms, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He emphasised that these measures reflect Sarawak’s firm commitment to upholding transparency and accountability, with the aim of preventing corruption and instilling a strong sense of social responsibility among leaders.

“We must let Sarawak be known not only for what we build, but how we build it,” said Abang Johari, stressing the importance of ethics and social responsibility in the State’s pursuit of digital transformation and a green economy.

He added that innovation should not only solve problems but also reinforce trust, noting that the future Sarawak builds must be smart, fair, transparent, and inclusive.

The Premier’s speech was delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who represented him in officiating the Borneo International Integrity Summit 2025 (BIIS 2025) held today (July 29) at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here.

He also highlighted that Sarawak is no longer isolated on the global stage.

“We are now positioning ourselves as a regional leader in green energy and the digital economy. Being part of a developing region does not only mean having bigger monuments or larger bridges but rather effective and flexible authority.

“Development must not come at the cost of our environment or future generations. That is why our growth must be innovation-led and sustainability-driven.”

Abang Johari further underscored that as Sarawak leads the way in introducing hydrogen as a primary power source, the State is well on track to becoming a key player in the Asia-Pacific green hydrogen economy and positioning itself as the ‘battery of ASEAN’.

The Premier also pointed out that through the establishment of the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), the State is fostering a culture of innovation aligned with global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, positioning it as a key digital driver that empowers businesses to enhance their products and achieve digital freedom.

“This update not only boosts Sarawak’s digital system reputation but also our economy,” he added.

Meanwhile, during the summit’s opening ceremony, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) exchange was held between five strategic partners—Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), the Sarawak Premier’s Department through the Integrity and Ombudsman Unit (UNIONS), Konsortium Universiti Universitas Borneo (KUUB), Consortium of Eastern Indonesia State Universities (CEISU), and the Philippine–EAGA Higher Education Institutions Consortium (PEHEIC).

BIIS 2025, themed ‘Driving Innovation, Transparency, and Ethical Leadership for a Sustainable Future’, brought together over 800 participants, including students from national and international universities, delegates, and staff from state and federal government agencies. — DayakDaily

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