By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 9: Sarawak’s extensive hydroelectric potential, fuelled by major rivers like Batang Rajang, Batang Ai, Murum River, and Batang Baleh is propelling the State towards a leading role in renewable energy development.
According to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the existence of these rivers lays a strong foundation for sustainable energy development in addition to looking to position the State as Asia’s renewable powerhouse by leveraging its renewable energy capabilities to lead the region towards sustainability.
“This branding (Sarawak-Asia’s Renewable Powerhouse), I believe, will position Sarawak on the global stage as a hub for renewable energy sources and transition initiatives to carbon-free energy use,” said Abang Johari in his 2024 Aidilfitri holiday message while citing the global movement towards net-zero by 2050 following the Paris Agreement in 2015.
Drawing inspiration from successful model countries like Canada and Norway, he emphasised the importance and added that the State aims to export energy to neighbouring regions like Brunei, Sabah, and Singapore, thereby demonstrating the State’s potential in making a significant contribution to regional energy demands while upholding competitive tariffs.
The State’s readiness to serve as ‘ASEAN battery’ or ‘green energy hub’ highlights its capacity to support neighbouring countries in achieving green energy goals while addressing the challenges of climate change.
Abang Johari also said that the State is exploring alternative low-carbon energy sources, an effort which demonstrates commitment towards innovation and environmental stewardship.
“Other low-carbon energy sources that are also being developed or explored include the production of green hydrogen and aviation fuel produced from algae or sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), floating solar, and biomass in the form of pellets from our forest resources,” he said. — DayakDaily
