Sarawak intensifies climate governance on path to Net Zero 2050

KUCHING (March 12): Sarawak is stepping up its commitment to climate action with strengthened environmental governance as part of its ambitious net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050, said the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB).

The board said a cornerstone of this effort is the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance 2023, which provides a comprehensive framework for regulating and managing greenhouse gas emissions across the state.

“The ordinance is a major milestone in Sarawak’s climate strategy, and the state is leading the implementation of the ordinance and overseeing monitoring, reporting and management of emissions.

“In preparation, we enhanced our regulatory systems and capacity, particularly focusing on high emission sectors such as oil and gas, as well as energy. Under this ordinance, scheduled economic sectors must register with NREB and submit annual carbon emissions reports,” NREB said in a statement.

It said these reports—verified by accredited external auditors under the Qualifications and Registration of Accredited External Auditors Rules 2025—will enable Sarawak to maintain an accurate greenhouse gas inventory, track emission trends, and inform future climate policies.

To facilitate compliance, NREB said it has developed the Greenhouse Gas Management System, which is integrated with the Environmental Information System of Sarawak.

“The system streamlines the registration process, and enables industries to submit emissions data transparently, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of reporting,” it said.

NREB said it continues to engage with industry stakeholders through regular sessions, ensuring that regulated entities understand the ordinance’s requirements and fostering collaboration between regulators and businesses.

“Beyond regulatory measures, the ordinance opens the door for Sarawak to participate in emerging carbon management and market mechanisms.

“These initiatives are expected to attract investments in renewable energy, sustainable technologies, and innovative climate solutions such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), reinforcing Sarawak’s position as a regional leader in sustainable development,” it said.