Innovation powers Sarawak’s transformation, navigates global challenges, strengthens edge

Abang Johari (second right) operating a robotic arm to mark the opening of the 16th International Unimas Engineering Conference (EnCon 2026) at a hotel in Kuching on April 28, 2026.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, April 28: Innovation has not only driven Sarawak’s transformation but also enabled the State to navigate global challenges, scale growth and maintain its competitive edge.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stressed that continuous innovation, supported by strong talent development, remains critical for Sarawak to sustain its progress.

“Engineering must go beyond technical functions to address societal needs, particularly in tackling climate change and sustainability challenges.

“To sustain our future, we must innovate and find solutions, especially through scientific approaches, to the challenges before us,” he said in his speech when officiating the 16th International Unimas Engineering Conference (EnCon 2026) at a hotel here today.

Citing Sarawak’s unique geographical challenges, including extensive peat soil areas, Abang Johari pointed to engineering innovation as key to overcoming development constraints.

He highlighted the State’s shift towards elevated road construction over peatland, noting that while initial costs are higher, long-term maintenance is lower and environmental preservation, particularly of carbon-rich mangroves, is ensured.

“This is what I call innovation. You solve problems and at the same time generate benefits, including carbon credits,” he said.

Abang Johari also underscored the success of the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES), which replaced diesel generators with solar power in rural areas.

He noted that this forward-looking decision, implemented six years ago, has shielded rural communities from global fuel price volatility, ensuring stable and sustainable energy access.

“Now that the Strait of Hormuz is a problem, you don’t have the crude oil, diesel prices go up, but our longhouses are not affected because they are equipped with 24 hours supply of power through solar,” he said.

Abang Johari (centre) witnessing the exchange of MoU between Unimas represented by Ahmad (second left) and a representative from Spring Semiconductor Sdn Bhd (third right) during EnCon 2026 at a hotel in Kuching on April 28, 2026.

Sarawak’s diversified energy strategy, spanning hydropower, floating solar, biomass and hydrogen, further reflects the State’s commitment to innovation, he added.

From waste-to-energy initiatives producing methane and hydrogen, to breakthroughs in converting palm oil by-products into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), he said Sarawak is leveraging science and engineering to unlock new economic opportunities.

“These innovations show that our future is promising, provided we continue to invest in knowledge, talent and collaboration between academia, government and society,” he said.

Abang Johai also pointed out that without skilled human capital, even the most comprehensive policies would struggle to deliver meaningful outcomes.

He said the State’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS), built on economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability, requires a robust ecosystem of expertise, particularly in engineering, to translate vision into action.

“Without talent, it is difficult for us to implement policies which are macro in nature. Our sectors, including infrastructure and natural resources, must be supported by capable human resources,” he said.

Highlighting the conference’s role as a bridge between theory and real-world application since its inception in 2007, Abang Johari described this year’s theme, Empowering Industry and Society through Engineering Innovation, as a timely call to action.

The event also witnessed the conferral of the title of Adjunct Professor upon Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) chairman Dato Ir Yusuf Abdul Wahab in recognition of his extensive contributions to the Malaysian construction industry and engineeering excellent.

Additionally, 11 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) and various international universities, as well as national and global organisations, including key engineering industry players.

Minister of Utility and Communication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Unimas Board of Directors chairman Tan Sri Panglima Sulong Matjeraie and Unimas Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily