S’wak set to explore world-first tech to transform processed seawater into basis for carbon trading

Abang Johari during the press conference after delivering a keynote address at the Philanthropy Asia Summit 2026 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, in Singapore on May 18, 2026. Photo: TVS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 18: Sarawak is set to make history as a global pioneer by exploring what could become the world’s first technology to transform processed seawater (saltwater) into a main platform for carbon trading activities.

In a TVS news report, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that this followed strategic discussions with Singapore during his working visit.

“We have held discussions (with Singapore) regarding seawater that can be processed and become the basis for carbon trading.

“This is a new technology, and if it materialises, it will be the first technology in the world where saltwater can be purified and become a platform for carbon trading,” he said during a press conference after delivering a keynote address at the Philanthropy Asia Summit 2026 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, in Singapore today.

The Premier also said he had instructed the Sarawak Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability to work closely with technology partners in Singapore to further refine the implementation of the innovation.

Meanwhile, earlier in the day, he also had breakfast with Singapore’s Minister for Manpower, Dr Tan See Leng, where they both exchanged views on various matters aimed at strengthening strategic cooperation between the two parties.

This was later followed by two high-level meetings with Temasek and Equatic Inc., and then lunch with Temasek Trust chief executive officer Desmond Kuek and the company’s senior leadership.

Commenting on the subject matter, Abang Johari described it as a clear signal that Sarawak’s new economic strategy and green agenda are on the right track and attracting international attention.

He explained that Temasek’s panel members and associates are keen on learning about Sarawak’s formula, particularly in balancing the impact of rapid economic development with environmental sustainability. — DayakDaily