Sarawak advances toward sustainable energy future, says Premier

MIRI (Sept 5): Sarawak has made significant strides in diversifying its energy portfolio and developing a sustainable energy ecosystem, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

With the world undergoing major changes in energy production and usage while driven by the need to address climate change, improve energy security and ensure sustainable development, he added, the state was already moving forward in that direction.

“The government is committed to being at the forefront of this transformation,” he said in a speech read by Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin at the International Energy Transition Exhibition and Conference (ICETe 24) at Curtin University Malaysia today.

The launch of a Hydrogen Testbed and Refuelling Station at the university marked a milestone in Sarawak’s achievements in harnessing its vast natural resources to power a greener economy.

Investments in hydroelectric power, which now accounts for more than 70 per cent of the energy mix, has positioned the state as a regional leader in renewable energy while also advancing its capabilities in other clean energy sectors, such as solar, hydrogen, and bioenergy.

“The hydrogen economy, in particular, is a key focus, and I am pleased to see the launch of the project to build a Hydrogen Testbed and Refuelling Station here at Curtin University Malaysia, a milestone that reflects our commitment to diversifying our energy portfolio and building a sustainable energy ecosystem,” he said.

“Energy transition is not merely a buzzword; it is an imperative. The world is undergoing a profound shift in how we produce and consume energy, driven by the need to address climate change, improve energy security, and ensure sustainable development. Here in Sarawak, we are committed to being at the forefront of this transformation,” he added.

The premier welcomed the establishment of the Centre for Research and Exploration of New and Sustainable Energy (CONSERV) at Curtin, believing that this will serve as a platform for innovation, collaboration and the development of advanced technologies that can drive energy transition efforts in the state.

“It is in line with our mission to position Sarawak as a leader in clean energy solutions not only for Malaysia but for the wider Asean region,” he said.

On the conference which was attended by over 10 countries, he hoped it would translate to sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas and establishing new collaborations.

Curtin Malaysia acting Vice-Chancellor and chief executive, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, said the hydrogen fuelling station and testbed at Curtin was the first facility of its kind in the region and it reflects the university’s commitment to pioneering research and innovation in renewable energy.

“By advancing research and development of hydrogen energy, we (Curtin) not only support the state’s goals but also position ourselves as leaders in the global energy transition,” he explained.

Also present at the event were Curtin’s dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science Professor Tuong Thuy-Vu, Miri deputy mayor Ariffin Mohamad and other dignitaries.