Sarawak Energy: Phase 1 of e-Sampan project completed

KUCHING (Aug 28): Sarawak Energy Berhad has completed Phase 1 of its e-Sampan project, Project Pak Tambang, which amongst others promotes environmental sustainability through the electrification of the city’s iconic ‘perahu tambang’.

Its general manager (Research and Development) Dr Ng Sing Muk in a statement said over a 10-month trial period, Sarawak Energy demonstrated the technical feasibility of using an electric motor and battery in place of traditional internal combustion engine for the perahu tambang.

He pointed out the trial, which involved daily passengers, highlighted several benefits of the e-sampan, including smoother and quieter operation as well as the elimination of fuel odours.

“The conversion of traditional internal combustion engines to electric motors has reduced operational costs by over 80 per cent and also lowered our carbon footprint. During the 10-month trial period, we also saw reductions in carbon emissions, air pollution and noise levels.

“This aligns well with our vision to ‘green the grid’ and ‘electrify the fleet’,” he said.

The statement stated that Phase 2 of the initiative is currently on-going, focusing on exploring and piloting charging solutions for the e-sampan, with other promotional activities also planned.

“Project Pak Tambang reflects Sarawak Energy’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation, preserving Kuching’s rich cultural heritage while moving toward a greener future.

“This initiative supports the goals of the state government’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, which focuses on renewable energy and reducing CO2 emissions through the electrification of Sarawak’s transportation sector,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, the presentation and prototype testing of the e-sampan at Masjid Hidayatul Rahman in Kampung Gersik was conducted Aug 27 and officiated by Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, who is Pantai Damai assemblyman.

Sarawak Energy explained that Project Pak Tambang, a corporate social responsibility initiative led by its Research and Development division, was initiated in the middle of 2023.

The project was led by the Emerging Robotics Innovation unit in collaboration with local sampan operators who had been using this e-sampan since October last year.

It added the project, which also focuses on preserving the cultural heritage of Kuching’s Old Town, is aligned with Kuching North City Commission’s plans to revitalise Kuching city’s river transportation.