MDEC Launches Business Digitalisation Initiative in Sarawak to Empower MSMEs Through Digital Transformation and E-Invoicing. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has officially launched its MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) in Sarawak, marking a significant milestone as the programme makes its debut in East Malaysia. This strategic initiative is designed to accelerate inclusive digital growth by equipping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the necessary digital tools to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and future-proof their businesses for long-term success.
The launch event was officiated by YB Dato Sri Haji Julaihi bin Haji Narawi, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak. The BDI, introduced under the MADANI Government framework, exemplifies a “whole-of-nation” approach to digital transformation, with a mission to empower businesses across Malaysia — including those in Sarawak — through a strong foundation of tools, expertise, and support. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) and the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Industrial Terminal and Entrepreneur Development (MINTRED) Sarawak.
officiated by YB Dato Sri Haji Julaihi bin Haji Narawi alongside YB Datuk Wilson Ugak Anak
Kumbong and representatives from MDEC, SDEC, and MINTRED at BCCK Kuching.
YB Datuk Wilson Ugak Anak Kumbong, Deputy Minister of Digital, underscored the importance of this effort in driving regional economic development. He emphasized that Sarawak’s MSMEs play a vital role in the state’s economy and that embracing digitalisation and e-Invoicing will enable them to improve operational efficiency, increase transparency, and become more globally competitive. He added that Sarawak’s leadership in renewable energy, coupled with its digital ambitions, makes it a powerful platform for innovation. The Ministry of Digital, he said, is committed to supporting Sarawak’s journey toward a more connected and future-ready economy.
MDEC’s CEO, Anuar Fariz Fadzil, highlighted the importance of strong collaboration between federal and state governments in empowering local businesses. He reaffirmed MDEC’s commitment to fostering local innovation and creating sustainable economic opportunities in Sarawak. By working closely with the state government, MDEC aims to ensure that no MSME is left behind as Malaysia advances in its digital economy journey.
The event featured exhibitions, digital advisory sessions, and showcases by MDEC-accredited Digitalisation Partners, offering MSMEs hands-on access to tailored digital solutions. Over 400 accredited partners participated in the initiative, providing live product demonstrations and advisory services aligned with the specific needs and challenges of Sarawakian businesses. A key component of the programme is the Digital Maturity Assessment (DMA), a structured tool that helps MSMEs evaluate their current level of digital readiness and determine the next steps for growth.
Kumbong and MDEC representatives, visiting exhibition booths showcasing digital solutions
for MSMEs during the MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) @ Sarawak at BCCK Kuching.
A major highlight of the launch was the promotion of the National e-Invoicing Initiative. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Digital and implemented by MDEC, this initiative aims to modernise and standardise how businesses issue and manage invoices in real-time using the Peppol framework. This enables seamless interoperability across systems and ensures compliance with national tax regulations.
To make e-Invoicing adoption easier for MSMEs, MDEC has introduced a suite of Freemium and Affordable Solutions through its accredited service providers. These include Malaysia Digital (MD) status companies such as Xero and Big Ledger Sdn Bhd, which offer solutions compliant with both Peppol and LHDNM (Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia) requirements.
The launch of the BDI in Sarawak reflects MDEC’s ongoing commitment to building inclusive, practical, and locally relevant digitalisation frameworks. By bringing these efforts to East Malaysia, MDEC aims to ensure that the benefits of the digital economy reach all corners of the country, contributing to a robust, resilient, and inclusive national digital ecosystem.
For more details on the initiative, visit https://mdec.my/bdi.