BINTULU: Sarawak is poised to become the first producer of graphite in Southeast Asia (SEA) with a graphite plant being set up here.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this groundbreaking initiative is set to attract investments totalling 1.5 billion USD.
He expressed confidence in Sarawak’s economic development, particularly with the transition from fossil fuel to hydrogen fuel.
As such, he emphasised the importance of graphite in engines, particularly those powered by fuel cells or hydrogen, making it a crucial component in the shift towards cleaner energy sources.
“This is the first plant situated in the SEA. For the first time in our region, we will be producing graphite.
“Graphite is used in car engines that use fuel cells or hydrogen. This means that as countries transition their energy sources from fossil fuels to hydrogen fuel cells, they will require graphite. And we will be the first graphite producer in the SEA region. The first in Bintulu,” he said.
He said this during the Chinese New Year Open House event hosted by Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Bintulu today (Feb 15).
Furthermore, Abang Johari highlighted the significant benefits that the local community will reap from the Sarawak government’s acquisition of Bintulu Port, scheduled to take place in June this year.
He assured that 2024 will witness an increase in various income streams and high-paying job opportunities for Sarawakians, underscoring the need to enhance the state’s education system to align with the demands of the job market in Bintulu.
“We have planned that by 2026, we will provide education that is tailored to our economy by offering free tertiary education for Sarawakian students at universities owned by Sarawak.
“The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government will cover the fees for Sarawakian students. It’s a promise that I didn’t make in our election manifesto, but I am delivering it because we have a caring government and increasing income,” he affirmed.
Looking ahead, the Premier’s statements emphasised Sarawak’s dedication to economic growth, technological progress, and the well-being of its citizens, positioning the state as a trailblazer in the region’s shift towards sustainable energy and industrial development.
