Sarawak enters next-generation data storage era with WD glass substrate technology

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By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, July 2: Sarawak is moving into the next phase of advanced manufacturing with Western Digital’s (WD) expansion of high-end data storage production, including the introduction of glass substrate technology at its facility in the State.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the development marks a shift in the global data storage industry towards higher-capacity and more advanced systems, moving beyond traditional disk-based storage technologies.

“We were honoured today to launch the new facility producing the latest technology, which is glass substrate. This is a unique technology that allows data to be stored under high-temperature conditions.

“I was informed that this is the world’s latest technology in data storage. We are also grateful that they (WD) have confidence in Sarawak,” he told reporters after the official launch of New Horizons for WD Sarawak: Advancing AI Innovations and Powering Growth at Sama Jaya High-Tech Park here today.

Abang Johari further said Sarawak’s strengths in renewable energy and water resources continue to be key factors in attracting high-value advanced manufacturing investments such as WD.

“We have two advantages here. One is our green renewable energy. The other is water,” he said.

Earlier, WD and Sarawak Energy Berhad signed a Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) agreement, further strengthening the company’s commitment to sustainable operations in the State.

According to a press release issued after the event, the agreement enables WD to match its electricity consumption in Sarawak with renewable energy certificates generated from Sarawak Energy’s hydropower resources, supporting the company’s goal of reducing its operational carbon footprint.

“Through this partnership, WD achieves 100 per cent reduction of Scope 2 emissions of its existing Sarawak operations by sourcing electricity and renewable energy certificates from one of Southeast Asia’s cleanest energy grids.

“This supports WD’s broader sustainability targets, including 100 percent carbon-free energy by FY2030 and net zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by FY2032, as well as transparent reporting aligned with frameworks such as CDP and TCFD,” it said.

Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan who is also Minister for International Trade and Investment; Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian who is also Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government; Deputy Minister for Utility (SEB and PETROS) Datuk Ibrahim Baki; WD Executive Vice President and Chief of Global Operations Vidyadhara Gubbi; and WD Senior Vice President for Global Operations Dr Chandramogan Anamirtham. — DayakDaily

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