Plan to develop roadmap towards net zero carbon target by 2050 in the works, S’wak DUN told

KUCHING (Nov 20): A Sarawak Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan will be formulated to develop a roadmap towards achieving a net zero target by 2050, said Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He added an allocation of RM2 million will be provided next year for the formulation of the plan.

“Sarawak is also committed to reducing emissions and delivering its net zero targets in a pro-business and pro-growth way, in line with Malaysia’s commitment towards carbon neutrality as early as 2050,” said Abang Johari when presenting the proposed 2024 Budget during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting yesterday.

He said state-owned utility company Sarawak Energy Berhad has been tasked to come up with a renewable energy plan and expedite the implementation of renewable energy projects.

In addition to renewable energy, Abang Johari said the state’s Just Energy Transition Policy will promote the development of green hydrogen, bioenergy, and Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) initiatives.

Moreover, the state Premier said the Forest Department Sarawak will undertake a detailed forest carbon assessment to determine the current status of carbon stock in forested areas.

“Thus, RM1.4 million will be allocated next year to quantify forest carbon stock in Sarawak. Currently, one carbon study permit and one carbon storage licence have been issued.”

A study is also being conducted on Sarawak Climate Change Policy and Low Carbon Society Blueprints covering Kuching, Miri, Sibu and Bintulu, with an allocation of RM1.5 million.

Recognising the significance of marine resources, Abang Johari said a Sarawak Blue Economy Policy and Roadmap (SBEP) will be developed for the sustainable development of coastal and marine ecosystems, with the state featuring over 1,000 kilometres of shoreline.

Speaking on the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund (SSWFF), Abang Johari aid the initial appropriation to the fund in 2024 will be at RM8 billion and the fund is expected to commence operations early next year.

“With this appropriation, the fund is expected to grow sustainably with no withdrawals except in the case of critical events which might arise within this 20-year period or when the fund performs better than targeted.”

Abang Johari explained his government will continue to implement revenue reengineering initiatives and a state sales tax (SST) has been imposed on timber products since June 1 this year, and about RM8 million in revenue has been collected to date.

“We need to be continually innovative to find new ways of raising additional revenue to fund the cost of state administration, meeting the high expectations for development by the rakyat and ultimately, to ensure long-term financial sustainability of the state,” he said.