Sarawak eyes Brunei power exports in 2028 to expand energy ties, revenue

File photo of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 5: Sarawak is expected to begin exporting electricity to Brunei Darussalam in 2028 as part of efforts to expand energy cooperation with neighbouring countries and generate additional revenue for the State.

According to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Sarawak is currently sharing its energy with West Kalimantan and Sabah, with Brunei expected to follow in 2028.

He said Sarawak is targeting an energy generation capacity of 10 gigawatts (GW), or 10,000 megawatts (MW), by 2030, increasing to 15 GW, or 15,000 MW, by 2035.

“Sarawak only requires 7 GW for current industries. However, if our industries expand, we can increase our energy consumption. By 2035, we will be generating 15 GW, or 15,000 MW, and we currently share this with our neighbours, including West Kalimantan and Sabah.

“In 2028, God willing, Brunei will follow, and after that we will send it to Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. This means additional revenue for Sarawak,” he said at the Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs Chamber (DUBS) Gala Dinner held at a leading hotel here on Sunday (Oct 4), as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).

Abang Johari added that surplus energy capacity would also help attract investors, particularly industries that require energy supply at competitive prices.

He explained that new investments would create high-paying jobs and generate business value chains that would also open opportunities for local businesses.

“Once we have energy, it becomes an attraction for investment because energy-intensive investments will go to places where energy is available at a competitive price.

“So, if we have this, investment will naturally come in, creating high-paying jobs and generating business value chains, including for local businesses. If this happens, it means we will have new businesses,” he said. — DayakDaily