By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Dec 13: Accountants will play a crucial role in auditing and valuing carbon offset projects as Sarawak positions itself to lead in global carbon management efforts.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg explained that Sarawak plans to store carbon in abandoned wells on its continental shelf as part of its commitment to international efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
“However, it is not easy to quantify carbon. Gas is not something you can measure directly like simple numbers—it is based on its quality.
“This is why we need auditors to assess and value the carbon we store and the oxygen we produce. This task requires a specialised group of accountants,” he said when officiating Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Malaysia Stakeholders Appreciation Reception held at Sheraton Kuching Hotel here earlier tonight.
Abang Johari also emphasised the need to develop local expertise in finance and accounting to support such initiatives.
This focus will be reflected in Sarawak’s free tertiary education programme, set to launch in State-owned universities by 2026.
“One of the disciplines to be offered is finance, which includes accounting. We need you to audit our carbon, calculate it, and handle something that is intangible,” he stated, adding that such expertise must align with international standards to ensure credibility in carbon trading. – DayakDaily
