By Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 1: The Sarawak government has identified Murum as the potential area for Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (MASDAR) to invest in a project capable of generating 1,000 megawatts of green energy through hydropower.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, in announcing this, revealed that the green energy project represents a significant investment that would add value to Sarawak’s quest in the green energy agenda.
“Yes, I have met with MASDAR, which is a leading global commercial enterprise in renewable energy and clean technologies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) (to discuss the potential collaborations),” he told the media at the Gawai Dayak 2024 open house at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
This announcement follows MASDAR’s recent expression of interest in investing and exploring renewable energy opportunities in Sarawak, with a particular focus on floating solar projects, during a courtesy call on Premier three days ago.
Additionally, Abang Johari mentioned a substantial investment from South Korea, estimated at USD460 billion.
“The investors have proposed developing an energy hub in Bintulu to produce green methanol, green ammonia, green sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and hydrogen, with the ongoing implementation potentially extending beyond 2050,” he said.
Abang Johari emphasised that all these initiatives are part of Sarawak’s long-term green energy agenda aimed at securing a sustainable future for the region.
“The initiatives will commence now and continue beyond 2030, ensuring they proceed even after my premiership. The young generation will carry on this work. We are doing this for the future.
“That’s why we are working towards providing free education to Sarawakians, particularly in specific disciplines and fields, as the young ones will eventually take over these responsibilities,” he added.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi graced the Gawai Dayak 2024 open house.
Welcoming thousands of people from various races and backgrounds, this year’s celebration, hosted by the Bidayuh community, was a breathtaking display of Dayak tradition and culture.
Leaders and attendees don exquisite traditional attire, accessories, and gear to add to the vibrant atmosphere. Sarawak’s last Bidayuh ring ladies are also present to welcome visitors warmly.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, the permanent chairman of the Sarawak-Level Gawai Committee, and Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn as the 2024 organising committee chairman, attended along with all Dayak leaders. — DayakDaily
