Conference told of Sarawak’s challenging peat soils

KUCHING: Sarawak’s unique geoengineering challenges, such as its extensive peat soils, necessitate innovative solutions that integrate green technologies and sustainable practices.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg highlighted the difficulties in construction posed by these conditions, noting that structures built on peat soils often face significant settlement and stability issues.

Despite these challenges, he was optimistic about Sarawak’s potential to enhance its infrastructure, ensure environmental sustainability, and support community well-being.

“Sarawak faces several unique geoengineering challenges due to its geographical, environmental, and climatic conditions such as extensive area of peat soils which are characterised by high organic content, high compressibility, and low bearing capacity.

“Another one is alluvial soil in our river deltas and floodplains which is also soft and prone to consolidation and differential settlement.

“Besides that, we also face high rainfall and flooding at least once a year which can lead to water-logging and increased soil instability. This intensifies erosion and landslides, especially in hilly and mountainous areas,” he said.

His speech was delivered by his deputy, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, at the International Conference of Tropical Geoengineering (Tropicon) 2024, at a leading hotel here, today.

Abang Johari said the conference positions Sarawak as a hub for sustainable geoengineering solutions in tropical regions by bringing together global experts and innovators.

He lauded the conference as a pivotal moment for Sarawak, saying that the outcomes of Tropicon 2024 will drive meaningful change and development in the region.

“The insights and technologies shared here will undoubtedly contribute to our efforts in sustainable infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and economic growth.

“Moreover, the exposure and networking opportunities provided will strengthen Sarawak’s ties with international research communities and industries, fostering further innovation and investment in our state,” he added.

The two-day conference was organised by the Centre of Tropical Geoengineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (GEOTROPIK UTM), in collaboration with Concept-P Jurutera Sdn. Bhd. and Gabungan Jurutera Perunding Bumiputera Sarawak.

Themed ‘Green Innovation as a Sustainable Solution to Geoengineering Issues in Tropical Regions,’ the conference features a keynote session and industrial talks from 13 esteemed experts from around the globe, including Kazakhstan, Australia, Indonesia, India, and experts from GEOTROPIK UTM.

Additionally, parallel sessions will run simultaneously, with up to 60 research papers in the field of geoengineering to be presented.

The insights and technologies shared at Tropicon 2024 are poised to significantly contribute to Sarawak’s efforts in sustainable infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and economic growth.