S’wak Methanol Complex ‘first of its kind’ to adopt innovative tech

KUCHING (July 22): The Sarawak Methanol Complex was officially launched today, signifying the fulfilment of the state government’s vision and commitment to entering the petrochemical industry and establishing the state as a significant player in the global methanol market.

Sarawak Petchem Sdn Bhd chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Hussain said the RM7 billion state-of-the-art complex is the first of its kind in Malaysia with the adoption of innovative technologies such as the introduction of a large-scale modular construction concept and the jetty wave screen technology.

“This complex, one of the biggest in the region, is capable of producing 1.75 million metric tons of methanol annually, representing another major investment in Sarawak,” he said at the official launch ceremony of the complex at Tanjung Kidurong in Bintulu.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officiated the ceremony, which was held in conjunction with the Sarawak Day celebrations.

Abdul Aziz said Sarawak Petchem, which owns and operates the region’s first mega-methanol plant in Sarawak, has been driven by its goal to create a sustainable and impactful project that would serve as a foundation for development of value-added oil and gas downstream business activities.

“When we embarked on this methanol plant project, we knew we were not merely constructing a facility; we were laying the foundation for technological and industrial advancement for future generations.

“Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in many aspects of this project, from the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to energy optimisation.

“We have incorporated advanced technologies to minimise environmental impact, ensuring that our plant operations are aligned with global standards for environmental stewardship,” he said.

He also said that Sarawak Petchem’s journey in the project has been filled with challenges and triumphs, which required the dedication, hard work and collaboration of countless individuals.

“We have poured our expertise and passion into this project, ensuring that every detail was meticulously addressed.

“The adoption of a large-scale modular construction concept has proved to be beneficial in mitigating unforeseen circumstances, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.

With the completion and start-up of the plant, Abdul Aziz said Sarawak Petchem recognised the broader implications of its achievement.

“This project serves as a catalyst for more economic development in this region, driving job creation, fostering sustainable growth and strategically positioning Sarawak as a key player in the global petrochemical industry,” he said.

During the ceremony, Abang Johari also witnessed the exchange of documents between Sarawak Petchem and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) in relation to the supply of natural gas to the methanol complex and for the development of its upcoming low carbon ammonia and urea plant project.

Additionally, Sarawak Petchem also formalised its bi-partite collaboration in renewable energy with Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) respectively. Other documents, including operational licenses and agreements with relevant authorities were also exchanged.

The Premier also presented appreciation awards to six companies that participated in the Sarawak methanol plant project namely Samsung E&A, China Communications Construction Company (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Rahabco Engineering & Construction Sdn Bhd, See Energy Sdn Bhd, WZS MisSetia Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Caya Daya Sdn Bhd.

Among those present at the ceremony were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and Sarawak Petchem Sdn Bhd chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Hussain.