Abg Johari: Sarawak must move beyond raw materials to high-tech, green manufacturing

BINTULU (Dec 6): Sarawak must move beyond the export of raw materials and accelerate its shift towards producing high-value, technology-driven products for regional and global markets, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Speaking at the MoU signing between the Bintulu Development Authority and Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad to establish a cutting-edge aluminium fabrication and extrusion facility in Samalaju, he said the partnership exemplifies the kind of strategic investment needed as Sarawak advances into a modern, low-carbon economy.

He said the agreement illustrates how strategic investment, technological expertise, and sustainable development can come together to generate new value for Sarawak and its people.

According to him, the upcoming facility in Samalaju is tailored to support the global solar photovoltaic (PV) sector, manufacturing critical components such as high-precision aluminium frames and battery-related parts.

“It will be equipped with advanced automation, robotics, and digital quality-control systems, and integrated with the broader industrial ecosystem in Samalaju,” he said.

With substantial investment and large production capacity, he said the plant is expected to supply both regional needs and major export destinations.

“At a time when the world is accelerating its shift towards green energy, this project is timely and strategically placed,” Abang Johari said, noting that Malaysia is already among the world’s significant players in PV manufacturing.

In the long term, he added, the facility will become a vital contributor in the global solar industry by supplying quality aluminium components to module producers worldwide.

Highlighting Sarawak’s strength in renewable energy, the Premier said 70 per cent of the state’s energy is generated from clean sources, placing Sarawak firmly within the global green-energy supply category.

“The world has recognised that the market must consider whether a product is green. If your manufacturing process is powered by green energy, you have leverage,” he said.

He pointed to the global pivot toward low-carbon manufacturing and noted that the World Economic Forum has identified Samalaju as one of the world’s key emerging low-carbon industrial zones, one of only 38 globally.

Abang Johari said Sarawak must seize this advantage by continuing to diversify its energy mix beyond hydropower and gas to include biomass and solar.

He revealed that solar generation capacity in several sites is being increased, with growing interest from major international investors, including companies from Saudi Arabia.

The Premier emphasised the need for cutting-edge technology and AI-driven precision in manufacturing processes, particularly in the solar sector where constant innovation is driving global competition.

He noted that China is already preparing to migrate to new solar panel technologies that may not rely on silicon, and that future solar systems will incorporate improved energy storage, far beyond the current three to four hours.

“With new technology, solar will become a true long-term energy source,” he said, adding that Sarawak’s combined solar-hydro advantage offers exceptional stability.

Abang Johari reaffirmed the state’s commitment to establishing Sarawak-Owned Enterprises that operate on commercial principles.

“They will not follow the normal civil service general orders. If they perform, they are there. If they make money, they get bonuses. If not, they are replaced. That is the system we want,” he said, stressing the need for innovation, efficiency, and accountability.

He highlighted that Sarawak’s economic future hinges on strong human capital, which is why the state will offer free education starting next year.

Abang Johari also shared that Sarawak is on track to become a major node in the ASEAN energy grid.

The state has begun supplying power to Sabah and is preparing to export 1 gigawatt of green energy to Singapore, reinforcing its position as a regional renewable-energy leader.

“It is not just energy we are supplying, it is clean energy,” he said.

With expanding investments in North Kalimantan and strong demand for green power, the Premier said energy will continue to be a key driver of Sarawak’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“We have the resources. What we need now is the right human capital and the right technology.

“If we capitalise on our strength, green energy, innovation, and high-value manufacturing, Sarawak can become the star of ASEAN,” he said.

He noted that Sarawak’s economy continues to demonstrate strong fundamentals with a projected GDP growth of around 5.2 per cent, surpassing the expected national average.

“Sarawak now commands an investment pipeline exceeding RM58 billion across key development sectors, including energy, industrial development, digitialisation and the green transition,” he said.