By Olivia Miwil
KOTA KINABALU: Digital technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), automation, cloud computing and data analytics can drive Sabah's expansion in the Blue Economy, said state Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
He said such technologies should ultimately be judged by the economic value and opportunities they create for Sabah and its people.
"The ocean economy of tomorrow will increasingly depend on data, artificial intelligence, automation, digital platforms and smart logistics.
"Digital technologies could support fisheries, aquaculture, marine resource management, logistics and sustainable tourism.
"These can help us improve productivity, strengthen supply chains and connect Sabah businesses to markets beyond our shores," he said after officiating the 10th Malaysia Digital Economy Forum 2026 (MDEF2026) in Penampang here yesterday.
Masidi, who is deputy chief minister, also said Sabah should not remain merely a consumer of technologies developed elsewhere.
He called on investors and technology companies to provide training, knowledge transfer and greater opportunities for local small and medium enterprises, universities, and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions.
"When you invest in Sabah, invest also in Sabahan talent. Investment should leave behind something more valuable than the investment itself — capability."
He said greater digitalisation must be accompanied by stronger cybersecurity, data protection and public trust.
He added that forums such as MDEF2026 should ultimately lead to concrete outcomes, such as investments, business partnerships, training programmes and new opportunities for Sabahans
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