KUCHING, Mar 1: Sarawak’s participation in the Mentarang Hydroelectric Project (HEP) in North Kalimantan through Sarawak Energy Berhad (Sarawak Energy) is an important step forward for Sarawak’s renewable energy sector, says Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
According to a press release, Abang Johari told reporters today when met in Malinau, North Kalimantan that Sarawak Energy’s investment in the project was a strategic capital outlay to enhance Sarawak’s position as a regional economic powerhouse.
Earlier, Indonesian President Joko Widodo spoke and later performed the earth-breaking of the HEP dam described as a strategic national project and the largest in Indonesia.
The Premier and his entourage arrived in Malinau, North Kalimantan via Tarakan town yesterday upon the invitation of the consortium of investors to witness the earth-breaking ceremony that would develop the USD2.6 bil 1,375 MW HEP.
Sarawak Energy has 25 per cent equity in the holding company that has two other shareholders namely PT Kayan Patria Pratama (25 per cent) and PT Adaro Energy Indonesia Tbk (50 per cent).
Joko Widodo in his speech said the project was a reflection of the strong spirit of cooperation between the people of Indonesia and Malaysia as neighbours and who were “people of the same stock”.
He expressed gratitude to the local communities consisting mainly of the Punan and Lun Dayeh tribes who fully supported the project that was expected to upgrade the status of the local economy.
The HEP will supply power to local industries in North Kalimantan and is expected to be fully operational by 2030. — DayakDaily
