KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus has successfully launched its new Bachelor of Cyber Security and Bachelor of Data Science during its flagship SwinTalk Series event held on 19 March 2025, becoming the first in Sarawak to offer these dedicated degrees.
The launch, officiated by Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak, marks a significant step in the university’s commitment to supporting Sarawak’s digital economy. It also aligns with the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, which aims to position the state as a regional leader in digital transformation.
As industries increasingly embrace digital technologies, there is an urgent need for skilled professionals in the fields of data science and cyber security. Swinburne’s new courses are designed to meet this demand, equipping students with the knowledge and expertise necessary to drive innovation in data science and ensure the security of digital infrastructures. These courses are also aligned with the state’s ongoing efforts to nurture digital talent, support economic growth and contribute to the broader national digital transformation agenda.
“Digital technology is reshaping industries and societies, and Sarawak is well-positioned to lead this change,” said Ts Dr Miko Chang May Lee, Head of School of Information and Communications Technologies at Swinburne Sarawak.
“Our new three-year degree courses in Cyber Security and Data Science are tailored to equip the next generation of leaders with the skills to drive the digital transformation of Sarawak and beyond, enhancing their career prospects,” she added.
YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian (second left) officially launches Swinburne Sarawak’s new programs, the Bachelor of Cyber Security and Bachelor of Data Science, as (from left) Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho, Swinburne Sarawak Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer; Datuk Amar Jaul Samion, Chairman of Swinburne Sarawak Board of Directors; and Datuk Dr Philip Ting, Deputy President, Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry, look on.
In addition to the launch of the new courses, the SwinTalk event featured a panel discussion on “AI in Enhancing Industry Competitiveness and Sustainability”, where industry leaders and experts explored the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors.
The discussion highlighted how AI is helping businesses enhance their competitiveness, improve operational efficiencies and contribute to sustainability efforts – all of which are critical to ensuring long-term success in a fast-evolving global economy.
“As the Organising Chairperson, I was particularly excited about the insightful panel discussion that took place during the event,” said Ms Cynthia Aling, Associate Dean (External Engagement and Impact) for the Faculty of Business, Design and Arts and also the Organising Chairperson of the event.
“The SwinTalk series is a platform dedicated to engaging thought leaders, industry experts and academia in meaningful discussions on emerging trends and innovations. The conversation around AI’s role in industry competitiveness and sustainability brought valuable perspectives from experts who are at the forefront of technological transformation.
“Their insights provided students, industry leaders and academics with a deeper understanding of how AI can be leveraged to drive innovation, optimise business operations and support Sarawak’s broader digital economy goals,” she remarked.
YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim said, “The Sarawak Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 places AI at the heart of economic resilience and sustainability.
“This panel provided invaluable insights into how AI technologies can be leveraged to achieve business goals, support the state’s sustainability initiatives and boost overall industry competitiveness,” he said.
The event was a resounding success with over 300 participants in attendance, including 100 corporate representatives from various industry backgrounds as well as government personnel and students.
Mr Adrian Chew delivers the keynote speech at the event.
Another highlight of the event was the keynote speech delivered by Mr Adrian Chew, Malaysia AI, Data and Technology Consulting Leader and Partner from Ernst & Young Consulting Sdn Bhd.
Attendees also gained valuable knowledge through the panel discussion featuring Ir James Ung, Group Chief Operating Officer, Sarawak Energy Berhad; Mr Hazwan Razak, Head of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation; Ms Virginia Chan, Head of Digitalisation, ASEAN Siemens Healthineers; and Mr Adrian Chew. Through SwinTalk, participants had the opportunity to network and engage with experts in the fields of data science, cybersecurity and AI.
This event further reinforced Swinburne Sarawak’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of digital talent and ensuring that they are equipped to contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s digital economy and the broader goals of nation-building.
The panel discussion held during SwinTalk, moderated by Professor Brian Wong Kee Mun (left), Dean of Faculty of Business, Design and Arts, Swinburne Sarawak. Seen are (from second left) Mr Hazwan Razak, Mr Adrian Chew, YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Ms Virginia Chan and Ir James Ung.
The SwinTalk Series is a quarterly event organised with industry partners with the aim of developing knowledge and promoting the sharing of experiences and mentorship. This edition of the SwinTalk Series is also one of Swinburne Sarawak’s flagship events for the year in conjunction with the university’s 25th anniversary celebration.
For more information on Swinburne Sarawak, visit its website, Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram page (@swinburnesarawak), X page (@Swinburne_Swk), TikTok page (@swinburnesarawak) or YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak).