KUCHING: Sarawak is exploring the possibility of building a hydroelectric dam in Nusantara, the new Indonesian capital.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that while the plan is still being studied, Sarawak has already begun taking steps to expand its hydroelectricity network to other countries, such as Brunei and Singapore.
He noted that the confidence of these countries in the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government’s leadership and new economic strategy has enabled Sarawak to expand its horizon.
Abang Johari who is also the GPS chairman emphasised that a range of cooperation helped Sarawak’s relationships with these neighbouring countries to remain strong.
“During a recent visit to Brunei (Darussalam), the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) has endorsed the collaboration between Brunei and Sarawak, where the construction of the road connectivity between the two countries will continue.
“For Singapore, the Prime Minister has also given support to Sarawak to sell electricity to the island-state at a ceiling of 1,000 megawatts on the condition that, apart from carbon trading, if there are investments in Singapore that require energy, including data centres and those related to the new economy, such investments will be directed to Sarawak.
“All these are due to the confidence in Sarawak and our policies,” he said when addressing the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) appreciation dinner in conjunction with the 15th general election (GE15) last night.
Abang Johari said development was not only for the benefit of the state, but should be shared with neighbouring countries.
“Our government is not insular. We contribute to the development of the state, at the same time benefiting other countries.
“This is the value of GPS. Therefore, we need to defend this existing culture for our future,” he added.
Confident with such a strong leadership and sound policies, he said this will have a positive impact and benefit the people.
As Sarawak hits a record of RM11.9 billion in revenue in 2022, as well as a surplus of nearly RM2 billion, he said, Sarawak will revamp its fundamental economy.
“We will build roads, agencies have been set up, and we will upgrade the water and electricity supply. This will be a guarantee for our future,” he assured.
