By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 18: HighChem, a renowned Japanese chemical trading company and manufacturer, and Biaramas, a leading local bus operator in Sarawak, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the deployment and support of hydrogen-powered buses in Sarawak, which marks a significant step towards sustainable and decarbonised transportation in the region.
According to a press release, the collaboration is expected to leverage HighChem’s extensive expertise in renewable energy, research and development, and advanced technologies, alongside Biaramas’ deep understanding of local bus operations and its extensive fleet.
The MOU, in which the exchange was witnessed by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on Aug 11, outlines key areas of cooperation, including:
- Comprehensive support for hydrogen bus systems: HighChem will provide crucial support in the sales, retrofitting, and maintenance of fuel cell engine systems for hydrogen buses, ensuring the seamless integration and optimal performance of these advanced vehicles.
- Capacity building and training: The partnership will focus on developing and delivering specialised training programs for Biaramas personnel. These programs will cover general system knowledge, specific Fuel Cell Engine systems, and essential service and maintenance workshops, fostering local expertise in hydrogen technology.
- Strategic hydrogen guidance: HighChem will offer its unparalleled expertise and advisory services on broader hydrogen topics, encompassing production, storage, transportation, and various applications, as needed, to support Sarawak’s holistic hydrogen initiatives.
“This MOU with Biaramas underscores both companies’ commitment to fostering sustainable development and decarbonisation efforts globally, starting from Sarawak under the guidance of Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“By combining our innovative solutions with Biaramas’ operational excellence, we are confident in our ability to significantly contribute to Sarawak’s renewable energy-powered transportation goals,” said Ushio Taka, president of HighChem Company Limited.
HighChem, a proprietary licensor of its SEG® (Syngas to Ethylene Glycol) Technology with a strong presence in China and a planned expansion into Southeast Asia, with a feasibility study underway in Sarawak, brings a wealth of knowledge in sustainable and decarbonisation solutions.
Their ongoing advancements in redox flow battery stacks, green hydrogen production, synthesis gas production through CO2 electrolysis, and atmospheric CO2 recovery technology via seawater (eDOC) will contribute towards the greater objective of the renewable energy transition of Sarawak.
Meanwhile, Biaramas, with its extensive experience and a large fleet operating across Sarawak, is well-positioned to facilitate the widespread adoption of hydrogen buses.
“Partnering with HighChem allows us to access cutting-edge hydrogen technology and expertise, enabling us to provide reliable and environmentally friendly transportation options for the people of Sarawak.
“This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to a greener future,” said Biaramas’ general manager, Lai Sin Kiong.
The HighChem-Biaramas partnership is poised to provide the necessary support to Sarawak for the maintenance, retrofit, and procurement of hydrogen buses, playing a pivotal role in the State’s drive for renewable energy-powered transportation. — DayakDaily
