Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Government agencies, government-linked companies (GLCs) and businesses are urged to adopt technology that delivers practical improvements in efficiency, productivity and service delivery, rather than simply acquiring the latest digital tools.
State Assistant Finance Minister Datuk Ben Chong said digitalisation could improve government services, but technology should ultimately make work faster, more efficient and more convenient for organisations and the people they serve.
“Digitalisation can play an important role in improving the way government agencies deliver services, but ultimately, technology must make work faster, more efficient and more convenient for both organisations and the people they serve,” he said at the Sharp Connect 2026 Connectivity Tour on Thursday.
He said government agencies and GLCs could use suitable digital solutions to improve productivity, manage information more effectively, reduce unnecessary processes and support better decision-making.
Ben also said local businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), could use technology to control costs, improve customer service and remain competitive in an increasingly digital business environment.
He said the Connectivity Tour provided an opportunity for participants to explore various solutions, ask questions and understand how the technologies could be applied in their organisations.
“Technology is only valuable when it creates a real benefit. It should help us save time, improve efficiency, reduce costs, make better decisions and provide better services,” he said.
Ben also called for closer cooperation between the Government and private sector to ensure technology adoption translated into practical outcomes.
He said industry could contribute new ideas, technologies and solutions, while the Government could help create an environment conducive to digital and economic development.
“Greater cooperation between both sides could produce better outcomes for businesses and ultimately benefit the people of Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, State Assistant Minister of Education, Science and Technology Jordan Jude Ellron said the State Government welcomed companies willing to work with Sabah, but stressed that technology partnerships should include reliable after-sales support.
He said companies should go beyond selling technology by working with local universities and communities to develop local talent through scholarships, student placements and opportunities for Sabah students to gain exposure to advanced technology.
“Sabahans should be given opportunities to learn about technology and benefit from the company’s expertise,” he said, adding that corporate contributions should not be limited to product donations.
