Sarawak’s hydrogen sector showcased in MYC summit

KUALA LUMPUR: The recent Malaysia Commercialisation Year (MCY) Summit 2024 showcased Sarawak’s significant advancements in the hydrogen sector, including plans for a major hydrogen hub along with international partnerships designed to enhance both local and global markets.

The event, which serves as a leading platform for presenting Malaysia’s advanced technology and innovations, promoting socio-economic growth and encouraging international cooperation, took place from August 12 to 13.

Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr  Hazland Abang Hipni was invited as a panelist for the discussion titled “Hydrogen Economy Fueling Tomorrow: The Impact of Hydrogen on Regional Economy” at the summit held in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

In his address, he highlighted Sarawak’s strategic initiatives to boost its revenue from the hydrogen sector, which is emerging as a new economic pillar for the state.

“Sarawak’s capacity to produce green hydrogen utilising its hydroelectric dams will position the state to become a major player in the global hydrogen market by 2030,” he said.

He added that Sarawak Hydrogen Hub, located in Bintulu, is set to produce approximately 250,000 tons of green hydrogen annually, with 90 per cent designated for export and 10 per cent for domestic use.

“Key projects such as H2ornbill, developed in partnership with Japanese firms Sumitomo and Eneos, as well as South Korean companies Samsung and Lotte Chemicals, are anticipated to bring significant economic benefits and support Malaysia’s clean energy objectives,” he said.

In addition, Sarawak has launched Malaysia’s first electrolyser assembly and distribution facility, the Sarawak Electrolyser Assembly and Distribution Facility (SEA-DF), on June 6.

“This launch marks a significant step towards Sarawak’s goal of becoming a regional hydrogen hub,” it said.

The panel discussion also featured Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation (MOSTI), deputy director-general of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Gauri Singh, and NanoMalaysia chief executive officer Dr Rezal Khairi Ahmad.