By Nur Ashikin Louis
KUCHING, Dec 10: The first Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) proof-of-concept transport system in Kuching is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2023.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said as the global hydrogen market is gaining traction, with clean hydrogen production capacity more than doubled since January 2021, he is convinced Sarawak will be able to participate and contribute actively to the production of green and more sustainable hydrogen energy in the near future.
“In fact, by 2027, Sarawak will be able to produce 220,000 tonnes of green hydrogen upon completion of our first hydrogen plant.
“Leveraging on this new energy potential, Sarawak is developing our public transport system, powered by hydrogen fuel.
“The first (ART) proof-of-concept in Kuching is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2023,” he said when delivering his keynote address at the International Business Review Asean Awards 2022 Gala Dinner and Presentation Ceremony held at Sama-Sama Hotel in Kuala Lumpur last night.
He also shared Sarawak’s aspirations and undertakings to the audience which include maintainining at least 60 per cent of its power generation capacity mix from renewable sources by 2030. By end of 2023, it will commence power export to Sabah and potentially other neighbouring Asean countries.
Others include efforts to regulate forest carbon activities and develop Carbon Capture and Utilisation Storage (CCUS), ongoing research in producing micro algae-based renewable biofuel, ramping up agriculture production by utilising technology and digitalisation while also enhancing food security, as well as the passing of Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund Ordinance, 2022 in the recent Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting.
He also stated that Sarawak will have its own boutique airline which will not only boost tourism, but also drive businesses in Sarawak. — DayakDaily
