By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 3: Sarawak has forged a strategic collaboration with the prestigious Oxford Institute for Energy Studies (OIES) to bolster international cooperation in sustainable energy research and policy.
According to a media release issued today, the partnership aims to accelerate Sarawak’s transition to a low-carbon future by leveraging OIES’s global expertise in renewable energy, carbon management, and policy innovation.
“Collaboration with the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies will facilitate Sarawak’s journey towards a sustainable, low-carbon future,” said Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni during a working visit to OIES in Oxford.
With its rich natural resources and bold green initiatives, he pointed out that Sarawak has emerged as a frontrunner in hydropower development, solar energy deployment, and pioneering efforts in green hydrogen production.
Dr Hazland noted that Sarawak’s comprehensive energy transition strategy is designed not only to drive economic growth but also to promote social inclusivity and environmental stewardship—positioning the region as a trailblazer in renewable energy and carbon management across Southeast Asia.
“The collaboration aligns closely with Sarawak’s strength in nature-based solutions, as the State maintains 62 per cent forest cover and holds an estimated one billion tonnes of carbon stock,” he added.
OIES’s active carbon management programme—focused on nature-based solutions—presents significant opportunities for joint research on carbon trading mechanisms, forest carbon strategies, and policy development.
These initiatives will further strengthen Sarawak’s leadership in climate action and sustainable carbon management.
During the engagement, OIES extended invitations to Sarawak stakeholders to participate in its upcoming events such as Gas Day and Hydrogen Day, and offered avenues for joint research and fellowships in key areas including hydrogen production, carbon management, and energy policy frameworks.
Dr Hazland stated that these platforms are expected to elevate Sarawak’s visibility and capabilities in the global sustainable energy space.
Both parties underscored the importance of sound policy and regulatory frameworks to support the energy transition and effective carbon governance.
Through joint research, capacity-building, and knowledge exchange, the Sarawak–OIES collaboration is set to advance regional and global efforts in shaping a sustainable energy future.
Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Sarawak Financial Secretary Dato Sri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar, Kuching North City Hall Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman, and Sarawak Attorney-General’s Chambers Dr Jady @ Zaidi Hassim. — DayakDaily
