By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Nov 7: Sarawak aims to reduce emissions by 35 per cent, unlock RM347 billion in green investment opportunities and support approximately 223,000 jobs as it works towards achieving net-negative emissions by 2050 under its Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the strategy would contribute towards Malaysia’s national net-zero pathway and global climate commitments while supporting the State’s continued economic growth.
“Our ambition is to develop Sarawak while maintaining net-negative emissions by 2050, advancing green growth and strengthening our long-term economic resilience.
“Our approach is to grow responsibly, industrialise sustainably and develop our natural resources while preserving their value for future generations,” he said when launching the Sarawak Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan at a hotel here last night (Nov 6).
Abang Johari said the strategy outlined 15 strategic priorities across eight key emitting sectors and seven cross-cutting enablers, addressing emissions from energy, industry, transportation, buildings and waste.
He said Sarawak’s natural assets, including forests, peatlands and mangroves, provided an advantage in absorbing carbon while safeguarding biodiversity, water resources and community livelihoods.
However, he cautioned that the State could not afford to be complacent as economic expansion would also increase demand for energy, industrial production, transportation and urbanisation.
“Without proper planning, these developments could lead to higher emissions,” he said.
He stressed that achieving net zero did not mean putting a stop to development, but rather striking a balance between economic progress and environmental protection through better planning and management.
“As we grow our economy, we must remain conscious of our environmental impact. This is why we need both a net-zero strategy and a comprehensive carbon plan,” he said.
He added that carbon could also become an economic asset, with Sarawak exploring opportunities in carbon storage, carbon utilisation and carbon trading.
In this regard, Abang Johari said the State had issued three licences to private sector companies and non-governmental organisations to participate in carbon trading.
“Environmental protection is a very important matter to me, and we are continuing to explore ways to optimise our resources within this new economic landscape,” he said.
Digitalisation and technology, he added, would play an important role in helping Sarawak monitor and control emissions while continuing to develop its economy. — DayakDaily
