Building a Sustainable Future
In an era where digitalization is transforming industries worldwide, Sarawak’s construction sector is undergoing a significant shift towards digital construction. This revolution is not merely about adopting new technologies but about redefining the construction process to create a more sustainable, efficient, and competitive industry. As Sarawak looks to the future, digital construction is poised to play a pivotal role in achieving the state’s development goals.
Digital Construction as a Cornerstone
Digital construction is rapidly becoming a cornerstone in the global construction industry, and Sarawak is no exception. The adoption of digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing is transforming how construction projects are designed, managed and executed. These technologies enable better visualization, data driven decision making, and more efficient resource management, leading to significant cost and time savings.
Ahmad Zawawi Kasmin, Chairman of the Association of Professional Technicians and Technologists (APTT), stressed the importance of digital construction during a recent event in Miri. He noted that “digital adoption is becoming increasingly widespread, impacting not only the construction sector but the economy at large.” By embracing digital construction, Sarawak csn improve project outcomes and contribute to broader economic growth.
Sustainable Development through Digitalization
One of the key advantages of digital construction is its potential to contribute to sustainable development. By optimizing resource use, reducing waste, and improving energy efficiency, digital technologies can help minimize the environmental impact of construction projects. In Sarawak, where sustainable development is a priority, digital construction is seen as a critical enabler of the state’s green economy transition.
The Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 outlines the state’s vision of becoming a leading digital economy and society by 2030. A significant aspect of this vision is the adoption of frontier technologies, including those used in the construction industry, to maximize digital value and promote sustainability. For example, the use of digital twins virtual replicas of physical assets allows for real time monitoring and optimization, reducing the need for physical interventions and lowering carbon emissions.
Empowering Local Talent and Businesses
The digital construction revolution in Sarawak is also empowering local talent and businesses. By embracing digital technologies, local contractors and construction firms can improve their competitiveness and reduce reliance on low- skilled foreign workers. This shift not only enhances productivity but also creates high skilled job opportunities for Sarawakians.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has called on the construction industry to adopt digital technology, including AI and BIM, to bridge the productivity gap and ensure that local contractors remain competitive on the international stage. The government’s support for digitalization is crucial in providing the necessary infrastructure, training, and incentives for local businesses to thrive in the digital era.
Moreover, the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 emphasizes the need for a digitally literate society to maximize digital value. By investing in digital skills and education, Sarawak is preparing its workforce for the demands of the future economy. This investment is expected to lead to the growth of digitalized micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), contributing to the state’s economic resilience.
In conclusion, Sarawak’s adoption of digital construction is not just a step forward in technology but a pivotal move towards a sustainable and inclusive future. As the state continues to invest in digital infrastructure, talent development, and eco-friendly practices, the construction industry becomes central to achieving Sarawak’s goal of becoming a leading digital economy by 2030.
This digital transformation is about more than construction building; it’s about building a brighter future for all Sarawakians. By embedding digital technologies into every aspect of construction, Sarawak is setting the stage for a more prosperous, resilient, and sustainable state. As the global shift towards a digital future accelerates, Sarawak is poised to be at the forefront of digital construction, ensuring its growth is both visionary and sustainable.
Reference
BERNAMA. (2024). Construction Industry Must Adopt Digital Technology, Reduce Reliance On Foreign Workers – Fadillah. BERNAMA. https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=2303519#:~:text=GENERAL-
Margaret Ringgit. (2024a, August 24). Digital Construction Becoming Cornerstone In Technology Landscape | New Sarawak Tribune. New Sarawak Tribune. https://www.newsarawaktribune.com.my/digital-construction-becoming-cornerstone-in-technology-landscape/
Margaret Ringgit. (2024b, August 24). Digital Construction The Way Forward For Industry | New Sarawak Tribune. New Sarawak Tribune. https://www.newsarawaktribune.com.my/digital-construction-the-way-forward-for-industry/
UKAS. (2018). News – Official Website of Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development Sarawak. Sarawak.gov.my. https://mipd.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/461
