KUCHING: Inclusive policies that embrace technology and the digital economy are the keys to Sarawak's future success, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

       "The future is not based on gender or race but on the ability of individuals to command knowledge and technology," the Sarawak Premier said when opening the National Conference on Dayak Women here on Friday (March 18).

       In this context, Abang Johari said, the digital economy did not look at gender but at knowledge and skills.

       He said one way for women in the state to achieve gender equality was by acquiring skills in technology and digitalisation.

       "Education is the key to enabling our people to command technology.

       "People have to be empowered through education," he added.

       Themed "Dayak Women Making a Difference", the conference is organised by the Tan Sri Empiang Jabu Research Chair of Universiti Putra Malaysia, Sarawak Dayak Graduates Association (SDGA) and Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS).

       Abang Johari also launched a book published by the research chair titled "Dayak Women and Development" at the ceremony.

       Sixty per cent of proceeds from the sale of the book will go towards an education fund to be set up by SIDS.