Premier signals hydrogen-powered ART rollout next year despite ongoing works

Construction of ART station at Kuching International Airport as part of the KUTS Red Line in full swing as of Nov 15, 2025.

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Feb 12: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today signalled continued confidence that hydrogen-powered public transport will roll out next year, even as construction works for the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system remain ongoing across Kuching city.

Speaking at the ASEAN Sarawak Business and Economic Forum 2026 held at Hilton Hotel here today, he said Sarawak is moving from planning to delivery, with major infrastructure and energy projects now entering a critical phase.

Abang Johari speaks during the ASEAN Sarawak Business and Economic Forum 2026 on Feb 12, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (Japen)

“Next year, insyaAllah we have hydrogen-powered public transport, I think the first in this region.

“Thus, we invite those who value execution, certainty and long-term partnership to move forward with us,” he said.

While the Premier has previously indicated a 2027 rollout, today’s remarks reinforce the State government’s expectation that the system will begin operations within that timeframe.

File photo of an artist’s impression of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system set to be implemented in Kuching.

The ART, part of the broader Kuching Urban Transport System (KUTS), is currently under construction across Kuching city, with multiple work packages being implemented simultaneously.

The hydrogen-powered ART vehicles will run on dedicated lanes, including both elevated and at-grade sections, ensuring they do not share road space with regular traffic.

Phase 1 of KUTS covers almost 70 km of routes with 31 stations across three main lines: the Blue Line from Rembus in Kota Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange in the city centre, the Red Line from Kuching Sentral to Pending, and the Green Line linking Pending to Damai Central.

Tracks are being laid, stations are rising, and depots are under construction in high-traffic areas including Jalan Canna in Stutong, Jalan Wan Alwi in front of Vivacity Megamall, Jalan Simpang Tiga in front of The Spring, Jalan Tun Jugah, Jalan Lapangan Terbang, Jalan Tun Razak, and Jalan Datuk Marican Salleh in Pending.

This is where road closures and lane diversions have already caused regular bottlenecks during peak hours. Commuters have reported slow-moving traffic, and local drivers are navigating detours daily as the city prepares for the hydrogen-powered ART network. — DayakDaily