Sarawak eyes water as next big tradeable commodity amid rising global demand

File photo depicting the scenic Kuching riverside.

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, Dec 20: Sarawak has the potential to develop water as a tradeable resource in the future, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Speaking at the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak Branch Annual Dinner 2025 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) last night (Dec 19), he highlighted the rising global demand for water, particularly with the growth of data centrrs and artificial intelligence (AI).

“I was invited to speak at the World Water Congress 2025 in Bangkok last week, where I shared my views with international experts.

“Besides power, water is emerging as another critical commodity, one that could become tradeable,” he said.

Abang Johari noted that the president of the International Water Association had shared an observation from the Congress: the world encourages the establishment of data centres because they consume vast amounts of water, which in turn affects ordinary consumers’ water supply.

“With the expansion of AI, data centres will continue to grow, driving up global water demand. Countries with abundant water, like Sarawak, are well-positioned to benefit from this trend,” he said.

“Some countries face challenges due to shared rivers and limited supply. Those with a surplus can export water. We are truly blessed asSarawak has numerous rivers within our borders,” he added.

The Premier concluded that water could become a key input in the new economy, offering Sarawak fresh opportunities for growth, trade, and strategic development. — DayakDaily