Premier highlights engineers’ role in lowering hydrogen costs, driving Sarawak’s clean energy transition

KUCHING (Dec 20): Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has highlighted the role of engineers in the state’s development, particularly in reducing the cost of clean energy technologies such as hydrogen.

He said hydrogen plays a strategic role in Sarawak’s efforts to address climate change, as the state moves to cut carbon emissions and transition towards clean and sustainable energy sources.

“Because of this climate change, it tests our own system, the way we do things, and the way we have to find solutions to that particular problem,” he said when speaking at the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak Branch Annual Dinner 2025 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Friday night.

“Though it (hydrogen technology) is costly, but over time, engineers can reduce the cost, by perhaps, inventing new processes,” he added.

He reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to using hydrogen in its public transportation system to advance its ambition of becoming a low-carbon city in the region.

“This is why engineers are now focused on the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system and exploring the use of hydrogen for public transport, so that we do not emit large amounts of carbon dioxide from exhaust emissions.

“With hydrogen, the only emission is water vapour, making Kuching a very clean city,” he said.

Besides public transport, Sarawak is advancing hydrogen technology through green hydrogen projects in Bintulu, producing and exporting derivatives such as ammonia and methanol, while also exploring its use in sustainable aviation fuel and broader clean-energy applications.

Abang Johari further emphasised the role of engineers, likening them to the “gears” that turn for the prosperity of Sarawak’s future.

“Rationalise and get that technology to ‘pusing’ (turn) for the future. You are ‘pusing’ (turning) Sarawak for the future,” he said.

Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Energy and Environmental Sustainability Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Sarawak Public Works Department director Ir Dr Cassidy Morris, IEM president Ir Prof Dr Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin, Sarawak branch chairperson Ir Dr Angelia Liew San Chuin, and other distinguished guests.