Producing hydrogen now cheaper than diesel, powering Sarawak’s next economic leap

Abang Johari addressing Leaders and Community Leaders gathering at the Limbang Civic Centre, which is being broadcast live via TVS, on April 10, 2026.

By Karen Bong

LIMBANG, April 10: Sarawak’s strategic push into hydrogen energy has reached a turning point, with production costs now lower than diesel.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said a recent study showed hydrogen is no longer the expensive alternative it once was.

“Previously hydrogen was costly, but now it has changed. Based on recent analysis, producing hydrogen is cheaper than diesel,” he said when addressing Leaders and Community Leaders gathering at the Limbang Civic Centre, which was broadcast live via TVS, tonight.

He note that global developments, including geopolitical tensions, have shifted energy economics.

Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak’s early investments in renewable energy, particularly hydropower, have placed the State in a strong position to transition into hydrogen production.

“Other states face energy problems, but we already have renewable energy. Fortunately, we developed our hydropower early,” he said.

He added that the State’s energy strategy, initiated by past leaders and continued by the current administration, is now expanding into hydrogen as a key driver of future economic growth.

“This shows we chose the right path to accelerate our economy,” he said, adding that more details on Sarawak’s hydrogen roadmap would be announced tomorrow when he is scheduled to officiate the Sarawakku Sayang Programme. — DayakDaily