Sarawak, the Asian Development Bank discusses more in-depth technical energy agenda

MANILA, 8 Sept: Sarawak and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) continue technical discussions on energy agenda, climate cooperation as well as alternative and green financing, following a meeting with the Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg here today.

According to the statement of the Sarawak Economic Planning Unit (EPU), the special technical handling roundtable session allowed the technical teams of both parties to investigate in greater depth some key issues highlighted by the Sarawak Premier.

"Among the topics discussed included Sarawak's energy agenda, ASEAN Power Grid, Kuching Low Carbon Hub, climate and energy cooperation, alternative financing as well as green financing", according to the statement.

The Sarawak delegation is composed of senior representatives from the Office of the Finance Secretary of Sarawak, EPU, the Sarawak Climate and Energy Diplomacy Unit (SACED), Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) and the Development Bank of Sarawak (DBOS).

They were also accompanied by ADB experts from related fields to discuss potential cooperation and expertise sharing between the two parties.

The round-table session provided an opportunity for Sarawak and the ADB to better understand their priorities, experience and capabilities, as well as identify potential areas to be continued through technical discussions at a later stage.

Any potential for cooperation identified as a result of the session will be further assessed on the basis of objectives, scope, responsibilities, duration of implementation, costs and desired outcomes.

"The technical session also strengthened the follow-up to the outcome of the Sarawak Premier's meeting with the ADB, thus providing a basis for continuing more practical dialogue, focusing on results and benefiting both sides", the statement said.