By Karen Bong
DEBAK, April 17: Sarawak is set to eliminate its reliance on diesel for electricity generation once Limbang and Lawas are connected to the State’s electricity grid by the end of this year, a milestone reinforced by the aggressive rollout of renewable energy solutions such as solar power in remote areas.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the move marks a significant step in safeguarding the State’s economy from fuel price volatility while ensuring sustainable and reliable power supply for all communities.
“Once Limbang and Lawas are connected with Lawas in December and Limbang hopefully by July, Sarawak will no longer depend on diesel. We can say goodbye to diesel,” he said when officiating the Leaders with People Gathering for the Saribas constituency at Riveria Sport Centre here, which was streamed live via Ukas Channel, today.
He emphasised that Sarawak had already begun reducing diesel dependency six years ago, particularly in rural areas such as Baram, Telang Usan, Mulu, and Marudi, through the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES) initiative.
Under the scheme longhouses previously reliant on diesel generator sets have transitioned to solar-powered systems equipped with battery storage, enabling round-the-clock electricity without fuel costs.
“For six years, these communities have not used generator sets. They now rely on solar energy and do not have to pay electricity bills,” he said, adding that the approach has insulated rural populations from rising diesel prices and supply disruptions.
Abang Johari noted that diesel prices have tripled, which would have significantly increased electricity generation costs if the State had continued to rely on fuel-based systems. He also highlighted issues such as diesel smuggling that have led to supply shortages.
“Today, our people in longhouses are not affected. Their electricity runs 24 hours on solar systems. Our energy mix now depends on hydropower, solar, biomass and gas turbines… not diesel,” he stressed.
The Premier added that reducing diesel reliance is crucial to maintaining economic stability, noting that sectors still dependent on diesel, especially transportation and construction, which are currently bearing the brunt of rising fuel costs.
He also highlighted how infrastructure development has also helped mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs, citing the construction of major bridges to replace diesel-powered ferry services across Sarawak.
“For areas like Saribas, Sri Aman and Betong connecting to Kuching, we used to depend on ferries, which use diesel. If diesel prices rise, ferry fares increase and the cost is passed on to the people,” he said.
He said the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, set to be opened in May, will be the longest river-crossing bridge in Malaysia and will eliminate the need for ferry services across the wide river, which currently requires two ferries to operate.
“Soon, we will no longer depend on ferries. This RM900 million bridge is built with our own resources for the benefit of the people,” he added.
On cost-of-living measures, Abang Johari said that the State government had approved an additional RM136.2 million, bringing the total special aid package for this year to RM876.2 million to help ease financial pressures on the people.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Deputy Minister of Community Wellbeing Development and Saribas assemblyman Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam and community leaders were among those present. — DayakDaily
