By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 12: Sarawak will implement a green quarry pilot project to evaluate the effectiveness of technologies in reducing carbon emissions, improving water and industrial waste management, and determining the forms of support and incentives for companies willing to transition to a green industry.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan highlighted the strategic importance of Sarawak’s mineral and quarrying sector under the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. “
“Once a domestic-focused industry, the mineral and quarrying sector has now emerged as a key economic driver for Sarawak.
“Our State is fortunate to possess diverse mineral and rock resources that are essential for construction, manufacturing, smart technology, defence, and clean energy industries. These resources must be managed wisely, sustainably, and responsibly,” he said when speaking at the launching ceremony of the Green Mining and Quarrying Academy at Hotel Seri Malaysia in Lawas, which was streamed live via Ukas Channel today.
As a first step towards a sustainable transformation, two quarry companies – SEDC Resources Sdn Bhd and Bukit Kerepok Quarry Sdn Bhd – have been appointed as implementing partners for the green quarry pilot project.
The initiative aims to test advanced technologies and develop incentives for companies committed to adopting greener practices.
Awang Tengah also shared that the Sarawak government conducted a technical visit to Canada in 2024 to study global best practices in the mineral and quarrying sector.
The delegation observed how the Canadian government and industry collaborate to ensure sustainability, including rehabilitating former quarry sites into tourist attractions, which generated tens of millions of Canadian dollars for local communities.
He stressed that such values must guide Sarawak’s approach to balancing economic growth, societal benefits, and environmental preservation.
“The government remains committed to ensuring the industry stays competitive, generates employment, and contributes to the economy without compromising our environment and natural resources.
“At the same time, industry players must act responsibly, prioritising community welfare and environmental sustainability over self-interest,” he reminded.
At the event, Mascoal (S) Resources Sdn Bhd was awarded the ‘Best Quarry Practices 2024’ for achieving a five-star quarry rating under the Sustainable Development Indicator (SDI) audit conducted in 2024.
Lawas MP Dato Henry Sum Agong, Ministry of Urban Development and Natural Resources (MUDeNR) permanent secretary cum Sarawak Minerals Management Authority secretary Datu Abdyllah Julaihi and Centexs CEO Dato Syeed Mohad Hussein Wan Abdul Rahman were present. — DayakDaily
