SMEs are being driven to use AI for business needs.

KUCHING, 7 Oct: Entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) need to adapt technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in practice based on the real needs of business.

Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Development of Sarawak, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat said that the use of technology should not just follow trends, but must add value and be used effectively and responsibly to improve productivity and competitiveness of businesses.

According to him, the SAMENTA Hyperlocal AI Fest and Government-Industry Dialogue 2026 - Kuching Chapter will provide an important platform for SMEs communities to harness knowledge, build networks and explore opportunities of digitization and AI that are tailored to business needs.

"Knowledge is important but businesses also need access to the right networks, capacity development, markets, financing and partners.

"I also welcome the emphasis on understanding the needs and readiness of SMEs. When businesses are given the opportunity to share the challenges they face, organizations that support SME ecosystems can better understand where capacity and access might need to be strengthened", he said during his inaugural address in Kuching today.

Ripin said the platform should be fully utilized by Sarawak entrepreneurs as a space to learn from speakers, connect with agencies and technology partners and build business networks.

He said that the findings and feedback of participants should also be shared METALLY with the Sarawak Government to enable real needs of SMEs to be identified and supported more effectively.

He hoped the programme would be a transformative point for Sarawak entrepreneurs in increasing productivity, competitiveness and readiness to face future business opportunities.

SAMENTA Hyperlokal AI Fest and Government-Industry Dialogue 2026 - Kuching Chapter is a one-day program that brings together about 150 participants comprising SMEs, government agencies, industry leaders as well as technology and learning partners.

The program also features a panel of speakers, discussion sessions as well as nine exhibitors from various agencies and sectors.-TVS