By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Oct 4: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has urged the Sarawak Foundry and Engineering Industries Association (SWKFEIA) to diversify into renewable energy by fabricating aluminium frames for solar panels, which will soon be introduced in housing estates across the State.
He said solar power will play an increasingly important role in Sarawak’s energy transition, alongside hydrogen and hydro, and this will open up new downstream opportunities for local industries such as foundries and engineering fabricators.
“Solar panels need frames, and these frames are aluminium.
“This is where your association can come in—to fabricate frames for solar panels,” he said when addressing SWKFEIA’s 31st anniversary dinner at Riverside Majestic Hotel here this evening.
Abang Johari added that solar energy deployment in Sarawak would not be limited to rooftop installations, but will also include floating and elevated solar farms, as well as wall-mounted panels in future housing projects.
He also highlighted that maintenance will be another area of economic potential, as solar panels require regular cleaning and servicing to sustain their efficiency.
“We are fortunate to have LONGi here producing solar panels, but the panels also need to be maintained.
“So, if we have maintenance or people who are experts in this, then you can sustain the use of what we call renewable energy,” he asserted.
At the event, Abang Johari presented the Outstanding Contribution Award to SWKFEIA chairman Dato Sri Kho Kak Beng.
Kho also received the Association’s Jade Long Service Award for 30 years and above, together with Lee Vui Shin, Bong Tee Yen and Lee Fen Ngia.
The Gold Long Service Award (25 years and above) went to Sia Chiok Ming, Chieng Tiong Siong, Liew Soon Phin, Wong Siaw Chiang and Chan Seng Hai.
Recipients of the Silver Long Service Award (20 years and above) were Ling Teck Kiing, Lee Ting Leong and Then Jun Foh.
The Bronze Long Service Award (15 years and above) was presented to Tien Khiong Fatt.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Federation of Malaysian Foundry & Engineering Industries Association (FOMFEIA) president Dato Richard Teh who was represented by secretary-general Rafeal Loh Choon Chuan, and SWKFEIA 31st anniversary celebration dinner organising chairman Lee Vui Shin. — DayakDaily
