More stations, easier rides

SERIAN: Plans are underway to construct electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Pusa and Sungai Tenggang, said Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh.

Len said that Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) had mapped out these initiatives to enhance the state’s road network and assured that over time, these charging stations would be extended to cover all major roads.

“EVs can travel up to 300 kilometres (km). Practically speaking, the distance from Kuching to Serian is only about 40km. From Serian to Sri Aman, it’s another 120km. Therefore, we plan to install another station in between, such as Sungai Tenggang. Pusa, situated along the coastal highway, will also have one,” he said after officiating the closing ceremony of the state-level Environmental Education Workshop for Teacher Advisors of the Environmental Lovers Club (PALS) at Roxy Hotel today (July 12).

Additionally, Len asserted that placing a charging station in Daro is convenient for EV users as it is strategically positioned along the Sibu-Mukah route.

“With the construction of two new nearby bridges underway, Daro is a natural choice,” he added.

Earlier in his speech, the Kuala Rajang assemblyman noted that the Sarawak government, through the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), was developing six charging stations across the state. He said that the first station is already operational in Darul Hana, Petra Jaya, Kuching, followed by strategic locations in Daro, Pusa, Kapit, Sibu, and Miri.

This initiative, he stressed, aims to facilitate EV users and encourage greater adoption of electric vehicles among residents.

Len also acknowledged SEB and Gentari Sdn Bhd for establishing the first charging station at ICOM Square.

“To reduce reliance on hydrocarbon fuels, the Sarawak government is aligning with global trends by promoting electric vehicle usage. These stations will cater to various types of EVs, including plug-in hybrids, hybrids, and fully electric vehicles,” he added.