Sarawak kicks off four pilot projects under Bintulu Transitioning Industrial Cluster initiative

Abang Johari (centre, seated) with other distinguished guests at the launch of Malaysia’s first World Economic Forum (WEF) Transitioning Industrial Cluster (TIC) held at BCCK on June 11, 2026.

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, June 11: Sarawak will kick off four pilot projects under the Bintulu Transitioning Industrial Cluster (TIC) this year to drive decarbonisation and strengthen sustainable industrial development.

Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said the projects form part of the TIC initiative, a coordinated platform aimed at accelerating industrial transformation across the Bintulu–Samalaju corridor.

“Decarbonising industries through the TIC initiative will be an important part to meet Sarawak’s goal to maintain our net-negative position while creating new opportunities for investment, industrial growth and long-term economic resilience.

“To translate ambition into implementation, we have identified four pilot projects that will commence this year,” he said when launching the Malaysia’s first World Economic Forum (WEF) Transitioning Industrial Cluster (TIC) at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.

He said the TIC is also part of the upcoming Sarawak Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan, which was developed through a comprehensive study to guide the State’s decarbonisation pathway.

The four pilot projects introduced are Smart Manufacturing Operations, Sarawak CCU-H2 Hub, Industrial Symbiosis and the Bintulu TIC Talent Initiative.

The first pilot project, Smart Manufacturing Operations, aims to boost efficiency and productivity through digital technologies and advanced data analytics.

The second, the Sarawak CCU-H2 Hub, will explore large-scale carbon utilisation and hydrogen production to enhance the commercial potential of both sectors while supporting decarbonisation efforts.

The third project, Industrial Symbiosis, will encourage industries to collaborate through resource sharing and waste utilisation, improving productivity and sustainability within a more circular industrial ecosystem.

The fourth, the Bintulu TIC Talent Initiative, focuses on upskilling and reskilling workers to support industrial transition, digitalisation and emerging low-carbon industries.

Abang Johari further said Sarawak will continue investing in talent development and capability building to ensure its workforce is ready to lead future industries and seize new opportunities.

He added that the four pilot projects will form the foundation for the long-term transformation of the Bintulu–Samalaju corridor, making it more competitive, innovative and resilient in the years ahead. — DayakDaily