Sarawak’s 31 catalytic projects fuel projected GDP surge to RM56 bln by 2030, potential upswing to RM96 bln

File photo for illustration purposes

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Nov 29: A total of 31 catalytic projects, spanning the oil and gas, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors, are poised to propel Sarawak’s gross domestic product (GDP) by an estimated RM56 billion by 2030.

However, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg underscored that these initiatives could significantly elevate this contribution to RM96 billion, factoring in the spillover impact on the services sector and the vast potential within local downstream industries that would provide opportunities for local micro, small, and medium enterprises.

“What it means is that we are on track to realise RM282 billion GDP by 2030. And these initiatives are not exhaustive. There are many areas which we can explore further especially in green technology and digitalisation,” he said when delivering his winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.

For the oil and gas sector, Abang Johari disclosed six catalytic projects are projected to generate RM34 billion to Sarawak GDP by 2030.

Notable projects include Bintulu Petrochemical Hub and Sarawak Petchem Methanol Plant (RM16 billion); Rosmari-Marjoram and Lang Lebah Onshore Gas Plants, Bintulu (RM13.9 billion); Samalaju and Miri Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) Power Plants (RM2.4 billion); and the proposed Lawas Petrochemical Development (RM1.7 billion).

Furthermore, Abang Johari highlighted ongoing feasibility studies by Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) for Kuching Gas Hub, the first in the Southern Region with the development of the K5 oil and gas field, which will support a new CCGT for long-term power supply security to Greater Kuching.

Green initiatives also take centre stage, with large-scale green hydrogen manufacturing projects such as H2ornbill and H2biscus in Samalaju anticipated to contribute an additional RM2.4 billion to Sarawak’s GDP by 2030, after commencing production in 2028.

Additionally, Abang Johari said investments in Samalaju Industrial Park for steel, copper foil, and polycrystalline silicon production are projected to generate RM12.3 billion.

The expansion of electrical and electronic industries, coupled with the development of Kuching High Tech Park, is anticipated to contribute an extra RM2.7 billion, while initiatives to transform Sarawak into a net food exporter include the development of agroparks, precision farming, as well as cattle farms and breeding farms are expected to bring in an additional RM0.5 billion.

Abang Johari also highlighted the cultivation of hybrid paddy seedlings and aquaculture projects, foreseeing contributions of RM0.3 billion and RM1.2 billion, respectively, to Sarawak’s GDP by 2030.

Recognising catalytic projects as key drivers of downstream activities and economic growth, he projected an additional economic impact of RM40 billion GDP or more for downstream industries.

He urged the Regional Development Agencies to plan socio-economic development in their areas, taking into consideration the demand for these services and organise participation from the community. — DayakDaily