By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 21: Sarawak is conducting a study on establishing the Sarawak Climate Finance Accelerator to identify investment-ready projects and help Sarawakian enterprises access the capital needed to advance them.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the proposed initiative was part of the State’s broader efforts to align economic growth with environmental sustainability and accelerate its transition towards net zero emissions.
He said economic expansion and industrial development must go hand in hand with responsible resource management and emissions reduction.
“Net Zero therefore cannot sit apart from economic development. It has to shape the way we grow — by using energy more efficiently, reducing emissions and getting more value from the resources we already have,” he said when delivering his winding up speech during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUNS) sitting today.
He said the State Cabinet approved the Sarawak Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan in June, providing a clearer pathway for the state to pursue economic growth alongside progressive decarbonisation.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak was moving towards implementing its carbon pricing mechanism, with the necessary measurement, reporting and verification systems, carbon market framework and policy development being finalised.
The work is aimed at ensuring the mechanism can operate clearly and effectively, marking a shift from developing the policy framework towards putting it into practice.
He stressed that as Sarawak’s economy and industries continue to expand, the state must remain mindful of the resources being consumed and the environment being left for future generations. — DayakDaily
