Hydrogen-powered boat race proposed for next Pesta Bersaug Dalat

DALAT (Nov 29): The next edition of the Pesta Bersaug Dalat is set for an exciting evolution with a proposal to introduce a hydrogen-powered boat race category.

The initiative was announced by the State Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, during the official launch of the Centre of Technical Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) Dalat.

“Pesta Bersaug Dalat is held every two years, alternating with the Balau Dalat Carnival. For next year’s Balau Carnival, it has been proposed that we include a race category featuring boats powered by hydrogen,” she said.

This proposal aligns with Sarawak’s broader commitment to green technology. The potential of this clean energy was showcased earlier during a visit by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to Centexs Dalat, where he boarded a hydrogen-powered catamaran in a live demonstration.

The announcement came on the same day the Premier officially launched the 8th edition of Pesta Bersaug Dalat 2025 at the Dalat Waterfront.

As a symbolic launch of the festival, he flagged off the 30 Men Paddlers Sprint Heat B category.

In that race, Rasa Sayang secured first place, with Lagenda Cahaya Kekal taking second, and Bintulu Port Warisan Gemilang Satu finishing third.

The Premier later presented prizes to the winners, witnessed by Deputy Minister of Economy and Mukah MP Dato’ Hanifah Hajar Taib; Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and Mukah Division Resident Datu Kueh Lei Poh.