Kota Kinabalu: Sabah has significant potential to become a digital and innovation hub linking Malaysia with the wider Asean region, said Malaysia Short-Term Rental Accommodation Association (MyStra) President Jayden Lee.
Speaking at the conclusion of the 10th Malaysia Digital Economy Forum (MDEF2026) at the International Technology Commercial Centre recently, he said digital transformation was no longer merely about adopting technology.
“It is about creating opportunities, strengthening businesses, empowering our people and ensuring that every region, including Sabah, can participate fully in Malaysia’s digital future,” he said.
Jayden said opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, small and medium enterprise digitalisation, talent development and the blue economy were significant.
However, he said capitalising on these opportunities would require collaboration among the government, industry, investors, academia and communities.
“Sabah has enormous potential to become an important digital and innovation hub connecting Malaysia with the wider Asean region.
“Let us leave today not only with new ideas, but with a commitment to turn those ideas into partnerships and action,” he said.
The forum brought together government representatives, industry leaders, technology experts, investors and entrepreneurs to discuss developments and opportunities in the digital economy.
Its five key areas were the blue economy and digital transformation, AI, cybersecurity, digital tourism and smart destinations, and the new digital visitor economy.
Delivering her closing remarks, Malaysia Digital Chamber of Commerce (MDCC) vice-president Felicia Lai said technology must deliver practical benefits to businesses and society, with AI used responsibly and digital growth underpinned by strong cybersecurity.
She said businesses did not need to transform everything at once, as meaningful progress could begin with one useful technology, a new connection or a strong partnership.
“The real success of today’s forum will be seen in the partnerships we build and the actions we take after today,” Felicia said, adding that good ideas must be turned into real action.
The programme also included memorandum of understanding (MOU) exchanges, the induction of new MDCC members and an awards presentation recognising outstanding contributors.
MyStra was soft-launched during the forum, followed by the exchange of an MOU with strategic partner tiket.com, represented by its vice-president Sara Elorza Susanto.
The launch ceremony involved Jayden, MyStra patron Engku Sri Paduka Diraja Raja Dato’ Reza Alhaj Raja Dato’ Zaib Shah Alhaj, Sara, Malaysia Tourism Federation president Dr Sri Ganes, invited hosts and organising chairman Alvis.
Felicia said MDCC would continue connecting government agencies, businesses, technology leaders, investors and entrepreneurs to transform ideas into partnerships, projects and business opportunities.
