Explore the DE Rantau Nomad Pass Sarawak 2025 – The First Step in Sarawak’s Digital Residency Programme

As digital work transforms economies and lifestyles around the world, Malaysia has emerged as a frontrunner in Southeast Asia, offering remote work solutions and attracting digital talent worldwide. At the heart of this effort is the Sarawak Digital Residency Programme (SDRP), recently launched at the International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2024. This initiative, led by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) in partnership with the Sarawak government, aims to establish Sarawak as a top destination for digital professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.

The programme, introduced by Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, positions Sarawak as an attractive, inclusive digital hub welcoming global talent. Sarawak’s emphasis on flexibility, innovation, and infrastructure is transforming it into a premier destination for digital nomads and marks the state’s commitment to driving Malaysia’s digital economy forward. Let’s explore what the SDRP entails and the broader ecosystem supporting digital workers in Sarawak.

A Bold Move to Attract Global Talent

Set to commence in 2025, the Sarawak Digital Residency Programme (SDRP) aims to attract remote workers, entrepreneurs, and investors to Sarawak. The programme was inspired by successful residency models, such as Estonia’s E-Residency, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of global digital talent. The cornerstone of SDRP is the DE Rantau Nomad Pass Sarawak, a 12-month visa that allows digital professionals to live and work in both Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia. The pass can be renewed for another 12 months, making it ideal for long-term digital nomads who seek stability while working remotely.

Premier Abang Johari emphasized that the SDRP is designed to offer flexibility for foreign professionals and freelancers. With the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, Sarawak will strengthen its reputation as a globally connected digital hub, attracting diverse talent while boosting local industries like tourism and co-working spaces.

DE Rantau Nomad Pass: Your Gateway to Working Remotely in Sarawak

As the first initiative under the SDRP, the DE Rantau Nomad Pass Sarawak is more than just a visa; it’s a gateway to Malaysia’s rich culture, modern infrastructure, and robust support ecosystem for digital nomads. The pass will be available for application starting in Q1 of 2025, and with it, digital freelancers can immerse themselves in Sarawak’s unique culture and natural beauty while enjoying world-class work environments.

This initiative supports Malaysia’s broader DE Rantau programme, which was launched in 2022 to position the country as the preferred destination for digital nomads. Since then, the programme has expanded to include non-tech professionals, welcoming talent across diverse fields. As of late 2024, over 3,900 applications for the DE Rantau Nomad Pass had been received, with nearly half of the applicants choosing to bring their families along. This shows the strong family-friendly environment that Malaysia offers for remote workers, including those in Sarawak.

A Thriving Ecosystem for Digital Nomads

To further support remote workers, MDEC and the Sarawak government have established an extensive ecosystem that provides essential amenities and infrastructure. The DE Rantau programme now includes over 2,000 certified DE Rantau Hubs across Malaysia, strategically located to offer high-speed internet and professional workspaces. These hubs ensure that digital nomads have access to reliable internet, comfortable co-working spaces, and proximity to key amenities.

Sarawak’s ecosystem doesn’t stop at workspaces. MDEC has also partnered with 15 key players across various industries, including tourism, healthcare, cashless services, and transportation. This network of partnerships is designed to meet the needs of remote workers and digital professionals, helping them integrate seamlessly into life in Sarawak and experience the best the region has to offer.

Sarawak Technology and Innovation (STI) Sandbox: A Platform for Sustainable Growth

Sarawak’s commitment to digital transformation extends beyond attracting global talent. At IDECS 2024, Premier Abang Johari also introduced the Sarawak Technology and Innovation (STI) Sandbox. Developed in collaboration with the National Technology and Innovation Sandbox, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation, and other local stakeholders, the STI Sandbox is a platform for driving Sarawak’s shift toward a knowledge-based economy.

The STI Sandbox is focused on areas crucial to Sarawak’s economy and sustainable development. Key areas include agritech, smart cities, and cultural industries, all of which play a role in Sarawak’s goal to become a food security hub and support the state’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030. With its emphasis on sustainability and innovation, the STI Sandbox embodies Sarawak’s vision for an inclusive, forward-looking digital economy.

AI Innovation at the Core: The Sarawak AI Centre

In a bold step toward technological leadership, the Sarawak government is establishing the Sarawak AI Centre, a dedicated facility for artificial intelligence research and development. This center will focus on harnessing AI to advance key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and energy, driving Sarawak’s evolution as a smart, sustainable digital hub.

In agriculture, AI-powered data analytics will help optimize crop yields, supporting Sarawak’s role in regional food security. In healthcare, the AI Centre aims to develop predictive analytics for early disease detection, enhancing public health and preventive care. Additionally, AI-driven smart grid systems will be developed to improve energy efficiency, aligning with Sarawak’s commitment to sustainability and smart urban planning.

Sarawak is also committed to fostering an AI-ready workforce. The AI Centre will launch a talent development initiative to equip local professionals with AI skills, ensuring that Sarawak’s workforce remains competitive and future-ready. Furthermore, an AI Unit within the civil service and a dedicated AI Data Centre will be established to support government operations, making Sarawak’s public sector more efficient and responsive.

A Vision of Collaboration and Global Connectivity

Sarawak’s digital transformation is rooted in collaboration with local and international partners. To ensure the success of its AI and digital residency initiatives, the Sarawak government is working closely with industry experts, academia, federal authorities, and international bodies. This network of partnerships will ensure that Sarawak’s AI and digital initiatives are grounded in global best practices and make meaningful contributions to the state’s economic growth.

A Bright Future for Digital Nomads in Sarawak

For digital professionals looking for a new home, Sarawak offers a unique blend of professional opportunities, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Through the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, Sarawak welcomes digital nomads to a state that’s rapidly becoming a digital innovation hub in Southeast Asia. With the support of an extensive network of hubs, industry partnerships, and government initiatives, Sarawak offers digital nomads an ecosystem that’s built for productivity, creativity, and sustainable living.

As Sarawak continues its journey toward a globally connected digital economy, its initiatives like the SDRP, STI Sandbox, and the Sarawak AI Centre demonstrate a strong commitment to embracing technological innovation and inclusivity. Digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and investors will find in Sarawak not just a place to work remotely, but a vibrant community that’s dedicated to building a smarter, more sustainable future.