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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 2: The Attorney-General is currently in the process of finalising the framework as the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government prepares to table a new bill addressing various aspects of Sarawak’s endeavours in the new economy, including carbon matters.
The bill is expected to be introduced during the November Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting later this year.
While specific details of the bill are not available at this time, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg explained that the proposed legislation would cover a range of issues pertaining to the new economy, including carbon-related matters, Sarawak’s rights in relation to carbon activities and trading, as well as safeguarding our land rights.
“This will protect Sarawak’s interests in the new economy. That is our wealth and also the way we want to develop our new economy based on green energy,” he said when addressing the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) special convention in conjunction with 60 years of Sarawak’s independence held at the party’s headquarters here today.
Highlighting Sarawak’s strength and assets in renewable energy, especially hydropower and its expanding endeavours in hydrogen, solar energy, wind energy, and microalgae for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), in addition to the oil and gas resources, Abang Johari pointed out Sarawak has gained attention and becoming a notable reference point in the field of hydrogen economy.
“Now we are exploring the circular economy, where we want to make use of our waste and repurposed into energy through biomass conversion process.
“So what I want to share is that we have economic goals aligned with environmental protection. We will have new sources of income from the environment,” he added.
When asked for revenue projections, given that Sarawak has doubled its revenue to nearly RM12 billion last year, Abang Johari said he is unable to provide the estimation presently.
“But I’m optimistic Sarawak’s revenue will continue to increase towards 2030. So allow me and the cabinet to work first,” he told reporters in a doorstep interview later.
Deputy Premier and SUPP president Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, SUPP deputy president Dato Sri Richard Riot Jaem, SUPP Women chief Kho Teck Wan, SUPP Youth chief Michael Tiang, Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president Datuk Joseph Salang, and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) vice-president Dato Henry Harry Jinep were among those present. — DayakDaily
