By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, July 15: Sarawak does not need to pursue nuclear energy as the State is already rich in renewable energy sources such as hydropower, solar, and gas-powered combined cycle plants, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking to reporters after officiating the 6th International Energy Week (IEW) 2025 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today, Abang Johari emphasised that Sarawak is on a different path from Peninsular Malaysia, which is currently exploring nuclear power as an alternative to coal.
“Our situation is not the same as Peninsular Malaysia. I understand they are exploring nuclear because they are still using coal to generate electricity.
“Coal is not ideal, and I was informed that our Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof recently visited Russia to learn about nuclear technology,” he said.
Last month, Fadillah said the federal government is considering nuclear power as a long-term option to address limitations in base load energy supply and reduce reliance on coal and gas.
The Deputy Prime Minister also stressed that a comprehensive study must first be conducted, including public engagement initiatives to gauge acceptance and address safety concerns.
Abang Johari reiterated that Sarawak does not need nuclear energy, as the State has sufficient resources to become a renewable energy producer.
“That is why we are targeting to generate 10 gigawatts of energy by 2030 and 15 gigawatts by 2035, and there are even companies investing in solar energy in Sarawak that are growing and improving.
“Therefore, Sarawak has the potential to become a renewable energy production hub, so I feel it is no longer relevant because we have our own resources because in the future, we will maximise the use of existing renewable energy,” he said.
The Premier also expressed interest in emerging technologies such as fusion energy, which may offer safer and more cost-effective solutions.
“We had a fusion energy expert visit Sarawak. Based on our reading and discussions, one of the emerging technologies being explored by energy experts is fusion energy,” he said.
Abang Johari explained that fusion energy works by reacting hydrogen molecules to produce power, offering a potentially safer and more economical alternative to nuclear energy.
“This may be cheaper and safer than nuclear. And it also requires hydrogen derived from water. That gives us an advantage because Sarawak has an abundance of water,” he added.
However, he noted that detailed studies must be conducted before any exploration can proceed.
“We need to wait and conduct studies first. Don’t rush, as we still have other sources of energy. But as I’ve mentioned, finding a solution to the climate problem is crucial,” the Premier stressed.
Earlier during the opening ceremony, Abang Johari also shared his insights in the ‘Fireside Chat’ session titled ‘From Sarawak to the World: Journey to Clean Energy Leadership’.
Also present were Fadillah; Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni; and other distinguished guests. — DayakDaily
