Hydropower drives growth, empowers rural communities

KUCHING: Sarawak Energy recently celebrated the Global Hydropower Day 2026 at Bakun Hydroelectric Plant (HEP), highlighting hydropower’s contribution to Sarawak’s economic growth and community partnerships.

Held on October 10 under the theme ‘Powering Progress: Strengthening Communities’, the celebration brought together community leaders and residents from Bakun and Murum.

Sarawak Energy Group’s Chief Executive Officer Designate, Datuk Ruslan Abdul Ghani said Global Hydropower Day provides an opportunity to recognise both hydropower’s role in Sarawak’s development and the contribution of the local communities to the success of its operations.

“Behind the benefits delivered by Bakun and Murum HEPs are the communities who have been part of their journey.

“Their partnership is essential to the responsible operation of these facilities, and occasions like this allow us to listen to their perspectives, better understand their experiences and strengthen our relationships with them,” he said in his speech during the celebration event at Bakun HEP.

He added that Sarawak Energy remains committed to working closely with communities in the Belaga and Murum areas to ensure that the benefits of hydropower extend beyond electricity generation and contribute meaningfully to local socio-economic development and environmental stewardship.

The Global Hydropower Day celebration featured interactive exhibitions, technical presentations, educational activities and guided tours of the hydropower facilities, giving participants first-hand exposure to hydropower operations and contribution to the State’s development.

The programme also provided students from the surrounding areas with opportunities to engage with industry professionals, learn about career pathways and innovation in the energy sector, while strengthens understanding of renewable energy and its applications.

Beyond electricity generation, Sarawak Energy continues to work with communities in the Belaga and Murum areas through initiatives supporting education, livelihoods, environmental conservation and the preservation local culture and heritage.

In collaboration with the Bakun Charitable Trust Fund, Sarawak Energy supports two education funds aimed at improving educational opportunities for communities in Bakun and Murum, particularly students from rural areas.

Other initiatives include the Adopted Longhouse Programme and support for local handicraft development, helping community members build skills and expand livelihood opportunities.

These efforts include handicraft training, digital marketing courses and participation in local and national exhibitions to promote traditional crafts.

“Our responsibility goes beyond the infrastructure we operate.

“It includes investing in people, building capacity and supporting communities so that they can create sustainable opportunities for themselves,” he added.