By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 1: Sarawak will upgrade its “bot tambang” or water taxis with solar panels on their roofs to generate energy to power the boats.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government will fund these upgrades for the boatmen.
“It will include decorating the boats with lighting for them to have an appeal at night.
“Just imagine our river featuring multi-coloured boats. This will be another attraction for the city while embracing renewable energy solutions,” he said when officiating the 36th anniversary celebration of Kuching City at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Square today.
Abang Johari expressed optimism that these beautifully decorated boats will add value to Sarawak River.
With Sarawak’s aspiration for zero-emissions public transportation is fast becoming a reality with hydrogen-powered autonomous rapid transit (ART) and public buses, he said water taxis plying the Sarawak River should also adopt renewable energy solutions.
As today marked the 36th anniversary since Kuching was elevated to city status in 1988, Abang Johari highlighted the need for cities in Sarawak to focus on cleanliness, green initiatives and environmental sustainability to further drive Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda and United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) activities.
“We need to add value as we continue to develop to provide a conducive and clean environment for our citizens.
“With clean, green and beautiful surroundings, Kuching City will become the major tourist attraction, especially with Sarawak’s second Unesco recognition for Niah National Park and Kuching Division under the Sarawak Delta Geopark,” he added.
Premier’s wife Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Minister of Utility Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environment Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, and Kuching North City Council (DBKU) Mayor Hilmi Othman were among those present. — DayakDaily
