By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Nov 1: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today unveiled the name of Sarawak Energy’s first purpose-built, solar-integrated electric boat, Seri Batang Ai, at Pangkalan Sapi here.
The naming ceremony, held in conjunction with Sarawak Regatta 2026, marked another milestone in Sarawak Energy’s efforts to explore clean energy technologies and environmentally friendly transportation.
According to a press statement, the 10-metre vessel was built by local company Global Fibreglass Industries, while Sarawak Energy’s research and development (R&D) team designed its electric propulsion system and layout.
The boat will support operations at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Plant (HEP), including dam safety inspections, environmental monitoring, and the transportation of personnel across the reservoir.
It will also be used to ferry employees and visitors, including those undertaking technical visits to the nearby Batang Ai floating solar farm.
Powered by two 40-kilowatt electric outboard motors, the vessel has a combined output of 80 kilowatts and is equipped with a 92-kilowatt-hour battery energy storage system.
Its battery can be recharged through 3.6-kilowatt-peak rooftop solar panels or a conventional grid charging system.
Seri Batang Ai has an operating range of 40 to 50 kilometres, a battery endurance of three to four hours, and a maximum speed of 25 kilometres per hour. It can accommodate up to 12 passengers.
Unlike conventional fossil fuel-powered boats, the electric vessel produces no exhaust emissions and operates with reduced noise and vibration, minimising its environmental impact.
Seri Batang Ai was first showcased during the 40th anniversary celebration of Batang Ai HEP in 2025, when Abang Johari also inspected the vessel.
Sarawak Energy obtained the boat licence and River Transport Permit for the vessel on Oct 21, ahead of today’s naming ceremony.
Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development Datuk Len Talif Salleh; Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni; Deputy Minister of International Trade and Investment Datuk Malcolm Mussen Lamoh; and Sarawak Energy Group chief executive officer Dato Ruslan Abdul Ghani. — DayakDaily
