KUCHING: Sarawak is poised to become a significant player in the area of renewable energy, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said this is because the state possesses strength derived from energy that can be used to align with global needs.
“We must look at where our strength lies. Perhaps other states have different strengths. Our strength lies in energy.
“So, the Sarawak government focuses on energy, and the rest is consequential to energy,” he said.
Abang Johari said this during the Sarawak Land and Survey Department Summit 2024 closing ceremony held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Saturday night (Feb 3).
The premier said the state has abundant resources of water, sunlight, forest, and the ability to create hybrid energy – a combination of wind and solar.
“We have these five strengths, and we focus on them because any development requires energy,” he said.
He added the state has enough water to produce hydrogen and to support its hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicle.
“Furthermore, Sarawak is the first state to have laws for carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) activities.
“So, when the carbon is stored in the lands of Sarawak, there will be charges and (carbon storage is) not free or charge, thus creating a new stream of revenue for the state,” he said.
With all these developments, Abang Johari hoped to see Sarawak prosper and develop like Bavaria in Germany, which is well known for its high-tech economy.
“Some may ask if focusing only on Sarawak would jeopardises the concept of federalism. Because everything is Sarawak-centric.
“I can assure you that we are not… Because If Sarawak prospers, Malaysia as a whole will prosper,” he said.
