KUCHING: Sarawak is set to become the regional hub for cross-border e-commerce and artificial intelligence (AI) education following a RMB100 million investment partnership between IMSEA Education (M) Sdn Bhd and Hangzhou Pute Education Group.
The partnership, announced at the BRICS Special Economic Zones Dialogue during the 4th Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, will establish the first Alibaba Digital Commerce Industry College outside China, based in Sarawak.
The initiative is aimed at nurturing digital talent, accelerating AI adoption, and promoting Southeast Asia’s integration into the global digital economy.
Witnessed by Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, the investment will fund the development of localized education programmes, training of trainers, industry internships, AI-powered learning platforms, and physical and online facilities in Kuching.
Some funds will also support regional research and education partnerships in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and China.
“This is a policy win for Sarawak,” said Dr Sim. “Through our Digital Economy Blueprint and Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030, we are stimulating private sector growth and building the talent pool to drive the future digital economy.”
The partnership is anchored on three strategic thrusts: scaling experiential learning through hands-on industry training; fostering academic exchanges between Sarawak and Zhejiang universities; and expanding AI-driven education and commerce for greater equity, including access for remote and underserved communities.
Hangzhou Pute Education Group CEO Feng DiYang said Sarawak was chosen for its skilled workforce, supportive government policies, and cultural proximity to both China and Southeast Asia. IMSEA Chair Prof Wallace Wong highlighted the role of University of Technology Sarawak in laying the foundation for the college through joint education and research with Zhejiang institutions.
With Sarawak Science Centre and the Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre already established, the initiative is expected to further boost the state’s position as a rising digital hub in the region.
By Connie Chieng