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Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun has urged greater use of artificial intelligence to drive the State’s digital transformation, spanning big data analysis, cybersecurity, government service automation and the maritime sector.

“In the current era of digitalisation, the potential of blue economy development is becoming increasingly significant, focusing on the sustainable use of marine resources through digital technology, including smart fisheries, marine tourism and environmental monitoring,” said Masidi, who is also the State Finance Minister, after receiving a courtesy call from the Malaysia Digital Chamber of Commerce (MDCC) at his office here, recently.

He said the adoption of AI was being aligned with the State’s development direction under the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 (SMJ 2.0) plan, which prioritises innovation-driven economic transformation, quality investment and sustainable development.

Additionally, he noted AI’s role in boosting productivity, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Masidi said the State Government is committed to supporting digital transformation, AI adoption and blue economy development as new drivers of economic growth in Sabah.

“The State Government is always open to strategic cooperation that can bring benefits to the people, in line with SMJ 2.0’s aspirations for more efficient development,” he said.

He was confident that digital programmes, particularly those centred on AI, could deliver high-impact results and add value to Sabah’s digital economy and maritime sector.

The MDCC delegation was led by its Emeritus Chairman Dr Chris Daniel Wong. The visit aimed to strengthen ties between the State Government and digital industry players, focusing on advancing the State’s digital economy agenda and expanding technology-based investment opportunities.

Wong said the MDCC would be organising the Malaysia Digital Economy Forum 2026, to be held at Dewan ITCC on Aug 11, starting at 2pm. The forum will carry the theme “Blue Economy and Artificial Intelligence: Driving Sustainable Digital Growth.”