SHENZEN: Sabah took a step towards achieving its target of becoming a regional Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) hub after inking a deal with China’s communications giant Huawei.

Huawei signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sabah government here, which was witnessed by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Ama and Huawei senior vice-president Chen Lifang.

A joint working group will be formed to oversee the smooth implementation of the collaboration, state Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Siringan Gubat said.

“The partnership will help Sabah achieve its target of becoming a regional ICT hub and smart state by leveraging on Huawei’s ICT expertise.

“It is imperative that Sabah provide world-class connectivity and technology and this can be achieved through the collaboration.

“We are also looking forward to working with Huawei to develop Sabah as a smart state and safe city to strengthen the state’s border security and benefit industries such as tourism,” added Siringan.

Musa said Huawei could provide invaluable assistance and guide the state not only in enhancing connectivity but also communications technology.

“While the state government has put a lot of effort into ICT development, much still needs to be done,” he said in a statement.

Huawei Malaysia chief executive officer Abraham Liu said the MOU was in line with the company’s ICT and skill development initiatives.

“We are committed in preparing Malaysia, especially rural areas like Sabah and Sarawak, to be ICT savvy.

“The partnership with the Sabah government is a step in that direction,” Liu said.