Sarawak has potential to take lead in net zero industry, says deputy premier

KUCHING (July 10): Sarawak has potential to be in the leading position in the net zero industry, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

In expressing this, he said the net zero industry is in demand following the energy transition from oil and gas to effects of climate change.

“The Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) and many others are saying this means a new energy transition and industry is coming out, and the biggest industry that Sarawak has the potential in leading is the net zero industry, involving carbon capture, carbon storage, green energy and renewable energy.

“All of these are new industries that require a lot of scientific research and new people to get into this area.

“Therefore, we must take the opportunity since, if you are at the forefront, the whole world may look at you and offer you a high salary,” he said to reporters after officiating at an event in Kota Samarahan today.

According to him, Abang Johari had announced in May that a South Korean company had expressed interest in building a petrochemical complex in Sarawak with an investment of US$460 billion, showing the international recognition of the net zero industry in the state.

“That’s a big investment. Our oil and gas industry did not receive such investment nearing trillion Ringgit Malaysia,” he said, adding that the Sarawak Legislative Assembly had passed an anti-climate change law in Sarawak last year.

Despite the growing net zero industry, he said Sarawak continues to participate in the oil and gas industry as one of its revenue earners.

“Sarawak will not waiver from fighting for its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) concerning oil and gas,” he added.