By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, April 24: Sarawak will continue prioritising environmental sustainability as a core pillar of its development strategy, with forest conservation and renewable energy forming the foundation of its green agenda, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said today.
Delivering his keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting at a prominent hotel here, the Premier emphasised that environmental protection is essential not only for sustainable development, but also for boosting tourism.
“Our environment is closely linked to tourism, and it must be protected. Although we already have more than five million hectares of urban environmental areas, we must also prioritise forest preservation and the conservation of our national parks and natural reserves.
“These efforts are essential to protect our wildlife heritage — something we are proud to share with the world,” he said.
He further emphasised that Sarawak’s commitment to environmental sustainability also aligns with the broader goal of safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.
As part of its green development strategy, Sarawak is investing in renewable energy sources including hydrogen, solar, and hydroelectric power. These initiatives have positioned Sarawak as a leader in the region’s energy transition.
“Our green energy push has enabled Sarawak to emerge as the ASEAN Power Grid, as recognised by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. We are now supplying energy to neighbouring areas, including Sabah and Indonesia,” Abang Johari said.
The Premier also revealed that Sarawak is in active collaboration with the governments of Brunei Darussalam and Singapore to supply electricity in the near future.
Also present at the event were Federal Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing; Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn, along with other dignitaries. — DayakDaily
