Call to set up commission to regulate power supply

MIRO Simuh (Serembu-GPS) has suggested the establishment of a commission to look after the supply and commission of electricity in Sarawak. 

He said this body can ensure the energy industry is developed in an efficient manner and to meet any challenges of globalisation and liberalisation of the energy supply industry. 

“The purpose of establishing this body is to avoid too much power and authority being given to Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) in controlling matters regards to electricity power supply in Sarawak. For example, we have the Energy Commission at the federal level, but it only covers West Malaysia and Sabah. 

“If we look at the importance of efficient and sufficient energy supply, we need a body with the power to regulate and promote matters relating to electricity that meet the needs of both domestic and commercial entities,” he said. 

He said this when debating in support of the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2023 during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Tuesday (Nov 21). 

Referring to the European Union (EU), Miro pointed out the EU established its own European Energy Policy Commission with the aim of boosting the internal energy market, making energy supply more secure, sustainable, and more affordable. 

“At the moment, we have an abundance of electricity power, but the demand will keep increasing from time to time. The capacity of industries is getting bigger, the domestic demand is increasing year by year. Neighbouring states and countries may pressure SEB to supply more in the future. 

“Thus, we need a body to help SEB regulate matters that do not relate much to SEB’s operation, but merely to drive the future plan and the sustainability of energy supply which is of paramount importance,” he said. 

Miro said the roles and responsibilities that should fall under the body or entity should include tariff; utility body, power producer and consumer protection; and licensing. 

“I would suggest that this commission be a statutory body under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Utilities and Telecommunication with the Minister-in-Charge as chairman,” he added.