SDEC unveils Malaysia’s first AI-powered unmanned mart

Morshidi (front) tours the TAP & GO Mart during a walkabout. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad

KUCHING (Nov 12): Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC) officially launched the TAP & GO Mart, Malaysia’s first fully commercialised unmanned mart, at Baitulmakmur Building II here yesterday.

Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), the mart features advanced technology including AI cameras, smart-shelf sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, and machine learning algorithms that identify products and automatically charge customers automatically upon exit.

“This is an effort to advance the digital economy. We have S Pay Global, online parking coupons, and now a smart mart as well,” said SDEC chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Morshidi Abdul Ghani.

Morshidi speaks to the media. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad

The innovative concept marks a major milestone under the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, aligning with the aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 to accelerate Sarawak’s transformation towards a cashless, data-driven, and AI-enabled economy.

The mart operates 24/7 and uses SDEC’s SBOX AI Wallet for seamless payments, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

“New users will receive a free RM20 voucher upon registration,” added Morshidi.

Morshidi, flanked by Abdul Wahap and Sudarnoto (second right), perform the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the launch of the TAP & GO Mart. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad

Strategically located at one of Kuching’s main government buildings, the TAP & GO Mart is expected to benefit employees working at Baitulmakmur Building II.

“We thank the Sarawak State Mosque Welfare Trust Board (LAKMNS) for facilitating the first launch, which we hope will benefit over 2,000 employees here,” said Morshidi.

He also expressed plans to expand and branch out the mart in the near future.

Also present at the launch were LAKMNS chief executive officer Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai and SDEC chief executive officer Dato Sudarnoto Osman.