KUCHING, Jan 27: Brunei Darussalam has expressed their interest in Sarawak’s hydropower supply via the Trusan Dam in Lawas.
Speaking to reporters after launching Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation’s (STIDC) 50th Golden Jubilee Celebration today, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the country would be interested in acquiring an equity or share in the dam.
“Previously, Brunei has expressed their interest. On our side, we are open to cooperating with them to develop the dam.
“We have in fact conducted feasibility and technical studies on the dam. If we proceed with the construction and Brunei is still interested, we are open about it,” he said.
Awang Tengah, who is also the Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred) and Second Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development was asked to comment on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s audience with the Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah recently.
Since Sarawak and Brunei have been discussing renewable energy and cooperation between the two neighbouring countries, he added that Sarawak has all these and are open to working together.
He explained that since more than 70 per cent of Sarawak’s renewable energy came from hydro, the State is ready to cooperate.
“Apart from that, other issues discussed were investment where Sarawak and Brunei can also work together in oil and gas, food security and manufacturing.
“Tourism was also one of them where both sides agreed to have joint promotions with the help of the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office.
“We will establish this office in Brunei by this year to facilitate both side’s tourism, events and activities including sports and trade relations,” Awang Tengah said. — DayakDaily
