2023 sees new benchmarks in visionary projects

Sarawak has experienced a transformative and trailblazing year marked by unprecedented strides in development and the initiation of visionary projects.

With its accomplishments in 2023, Sarawak emerged as a beacon of progress, setting new benchmarks in infrastructure, economic growth, and sustainable initiatives.

From the completion of major undertakings that redefine connectivity to the launch of groundbreaking projects aimed at shaping the future, Sarawak’s trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary.

New source of energy

As known by all, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has made a bold decision in leading the change of energy transition for Sarawak.

He has transformed Sarawak’s energy production from coal and oil to produce power from renewable energy sources through hydroelectric, solar and hydrogen projects.

Moreover, as the world is also moving towards energy transition to green energy, Sarawak has currently become the regional leader in green energy transition.

According to Abang Johari, Sarawak’s sustainable hydropower serves as the foundation of the state’s developmental journey, providing clean, environment friendly, contemporary and cost-effective energy solutions to meet its climate goals.

He added that by capitalising on renewable hydropower resources, Sarawak government has been able to balance between ensuring energy security and sustainability in driving socio-economic transformation.

“In order to strengthen our efforts in transitioning towards green energy, the Sarawak government, through the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Sarawak (MEESTY) has embarked on the drafting of an Energy Transition Policy and Road Map for Sarawak, targeted for completion in 2024.

“This comprehensive roadmap will pave the way for a secure, equitable and sustainable energy future for Sarawak and its people,” he said.

In addition to this effort, Sarawak Energy Berhad is currently developing a pilot 50MW floating solar farm at Batang Ai HEP’s reservoir.

Abang Johari stated that this project is expected to be commissioned in 2024 and has the potential to offset around 52 kilo tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

“On top of that, a pilot 60MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is also currently underway, taking over a decommissioned coal power generating unit at the Sejingkat Coal Fired Power Plant.

“This BESS will provide critical grid services, such as peak shaving as well as spinning reserve and optimise generation assets – minimising the carbon emissions associated with traditional power generation,” he said.

Concept of cascading dam

To further diversify the new source of energy, Sarawak is also exploring the concept of cascading dam construction to produce power.

For the record, cascading dams do not require large reservoirs or vast areas of land, but it relies on river flow.

Looking at this, Abang Johari believes that this new approach can be more sustainable, minimising environmental and social impacts.

Moreover, he stated that the cascading dam model for power production is internationally accepted and environmentally friendly and being implemented in Tasmania, the Nordic countries, River Danube in Europe and other parts of the world.

Development continues

Following the surplus budget of 2023 State Budget, for the first time in history, Sarawak has projected an increase of revenue to RM11.035 billion.

With the goal of fast-tracking infrastructure development in the state, the Premier had allocated RM7.5 billion solely for its development.

According to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, of the total allocated, 60 per cent or RM4.5 billion is targeted for development in rural areas.

“In comparison to Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak is still lacking in terms of its infrastructure development, especially in rural areas. Therefore, this allocation is both welcome and necessary,” he said.

Following this, he disclosed that the total sum of the budget has allowed his ministry, Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD), to undertake four basic infrastructure programmes to be funded accordingly.

Taking the coastal road network as an example, he stated that to date, the 13 packages of the construction of bridges and roads have all been awarded.

“These packages are at various stages of implementation and are expected to be completed by 2025,” he said.

As for the Second Trunk Road Programme, Uggah said that six out of 14 packages have been awarded, namely, the Batang Saribas Bridge No.2; Batang Saribas Bridge to Roban Interchange; Sebuyau-Lingga; Sungai Lingga Bridge; Batang Lupar Bridge No.2; and Batang Lupar Bridge No.2, Sri Aman to Betong Interchange.

“These packages are at various stages of construction and all six are scheduled for completion by 2025,” he said.

Sarawak owned airline

Beyond the development of roads, Sarawak has also put its dedication to improving its transport and logistics sector for better connectivity and to accommodate the growing demand of industries.

Therefore, the state government has made a bold step in its decision to acquire MASwings Sdn. Bhd. knowing that air transportation plays a crucial role in the economic and social development of Sarawak.

According to Abang Johari, air travel connects and provides a fast and efficient mode of transportation within Sarawak, with other parts of Malaysia, Asian region and the rest of the world for business and tourism activities.

“I wish to emphasise that the acquisition of MASwings is equivalent to our investment in infrastructure development as public goods.

“Therefore, it is not profit-motivated, rather it is essential to complete our transportation and logistics network in air connectivity within Sarawak and the region at a reasonable price.

“This Sarawak-owned airline will be able to provide more guaranteed essential air services even on less profitable routes,” he said.

For the record, late this year, the Sarawak government, Hornbill Skyways Sdn. Bhd. and Malaysia Aviation Group Berhad have signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the management of rural air services by acquisition of shares in MASwings Sdn Bhd.

Through this acquisition, the Premier emphasised the state government’s commitment to upgrading MASwings from a rural air service provider to a regional airline.

“I am confident that this initiative will improve our air connectivity and open more opportunities in trade, business and tourism. The improvement will allow us to better promote Sarawak as a premium destination for responsible tourism and business events given Sarawak’s natural settings and eco-friendly environment.

“It is also our aspiration to elevate Sarawak’s aviation sector to another level and expand air connectivity to nearby regions, especially Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Singapore, Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries.

“In order for us to be more efficient in providing air services, we are also preparing Sarawak to become an Aviation Hub and tap the potential for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities and training centre for aviators in this region,” he said.