KUCHING: While sour gas holds the potential to become a valuable economic resource for Sarawak, manufacturers must seek out experts in its processing.
Kuching Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and Industry secretary-general Datuk Jonathan Chai pointed out the importance of individuals knowledgeable in sour gas processing, including production, to train and develop a skilled local workforce.
“This will result in higher incomes for workers. Furthermore, it is excellent news for our economy’s development, and I believe that the spillover effects of this mega project will benefit many local businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs),” he told New Sarawak Tribune.
Chai also highlighted the job opportunities that will arise for locals in the fields of science and engineering.
“This investment will mark another milestone in the development of the Sarawak Economy Digital Corporation’s (SEDC) Petrochemical Industrial Park (PIP) in Tanjung Kidurong. Of course, this brings us a step closer to becoming a developed economy,” he added.
Earlier, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg likened the economic opportunities of sour gas extraction to the unique langsat fruit, known for its sweet and sour taste.
He explained that the sour component had previously been left unused due to undesirable elements, including sulphur, mercury, and carbon monoxide.
“Now, with new technology, we can separate the impurities, transforming sour gas into sweet gas. With these advancements, we can use the gas as raw materials for producing chemical products, which will further boost Sarawak’s economy,” he said.
