Sarawak eyes Napier grass as renewable energy resource, cultivation in sago plantations to support farmers

Abang Johari (third right) and Lulie (third left) press a device as symbolic to launch the 15th International Sago Symposium at TROPI on Sept 24, 2024. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 25: A study is currently underway to explore the potential of Napier grass as a biomass source for renewable energy generation, while providing an additional income stream for small-scale farmers.

In a news report by TVS and Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that research has been proposed to cultivate this grass within sago plantations.

“Napier grass can serve as a biomass source, which can be converted into grass pellets for use as peat stock to generate electricity.

“By planting this grass between sago trees, farmers can benefit from an extra source of income. In addition to pellet production, if they raise livestock, the grass can also be used as feed for their animals,” he said when addressing the 15th International Sago Symposium held at the Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Institute (Tropic) last night (Sept 24).

Abang Johari emphasised that the Sarawak government is prepared to provide financial support for TROPI’s research efforts, including the Napier grass study.

He drew inspiration from a successful operation in Bintulu, where a company utilised 800 hectares of land to produce 2.5 tonnes of grass-based pellets, which were sold to a power plant in the United Kingdom.

“Yesterday (Sept 23), I visited a factory in Bintulu and observed their production of grass pellets sold to a power plant in the UK,” he added.

Abang Johari (third right) together with other distinguished guests in a photo with children in traditional attire during the opening of 15th International Sago Symposium at Tropi on Sept 24, 2024.

In addition, Abang Johari urged Tropi to collaborate with Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak to research the construction of elevated roads in peatland areas.

He stressed the importance of preserving peat soil, given its role in carbon storage, while also reducing road damage and maintenance costs.

“Tropi’s research could provide essential data on the quality of peat and effective management strategies for building elevated roads.

“If we construct elevated roads, we will avoid the need to maintain roads on peat soil, which typically takes one to two years to develop waves. Although building elevated roads requires significant initial investment, I have requested JKR and Tropi to explore this further,” he explained.

Present at the event were Minister of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Saleh; Sarawak Financial Secretary Dato Sri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar; Tropi Director Datu Dr Lulie Melling; and other distinguished guests.

Themed “Unlocking Sago’s Potential: Towards a Sustainable Food System and Environmental Recovery,” the symposium aims to bring together scientists, industry stakeholders, and government officials to advance various aspects of sago development, ensuring a sustainable crop production system.

It also seeks to elevate the global status of sago as a viable, sustainable, and nutritious food source, while playing a vital role in the recovery and rehabilitation of tropical peatlands. — DayakDaily