‘Use Sarawak’s power generation as benchmark for Sabah’

KOTA KINABALU (Aug 26): Chairman of the National Consumer Foundation Sabah, David Chan, has called on the Sabah state government to consider Sarawak’s successful power generation model as a benchmark in enhancing the energy sector in the state.

Sarawak has made significant strides in renewable energy, particularly in hydro and solar power.

However, Chan emphasized that regardless of the type of power generation implemented, the tariff rates must ultimately benefit consumers.

“It would be disastrous for consumers if renewable energy tariffs are too high. There is no point in implementing solar power if the tariffs are unaffordable,” he stated.

He pointed to the experience in Peninsular Malaysia, where solar tariffs have been determined through competitive open bidding, with rates ranging from 18 to 25 cents per Kw/h,” he said.

Chan in a statement on Monday said that if Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) can offer lower tariffs through sustainable energy sources, it would be a significant advantage not only for SESB but also for consumers who would benefit from lower tariffs in the future.

He also stressed the importance of safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring that they are not exploited by any political actors.

“What’s crucial is to ensure that the energy tariffs offered are affordable and accessible to all segments of society,” he added.

Chan recently paid a courtesy call on Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedict.

The meeting served as a fruitful platform to discuss the current landscape of entrepreneurship in Sabah, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region, he said.

Chan said that during the meeting, Ewon highlighted his ministry’s ongoing efforts to support Malaysian entrepreneurs, especially those in the SME sector, which has been significantly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The minister also shared that the Sabah region alone has received financial support amounting to RM780 million, aimed at revitalizing businesses and helping them overcome the financial setbacks experienced in recent years, said Chan.

“On behalf of the National Consumer Foundation, I express our gratitude for the federal government’s positive response and commitment to assist those in need within the business community.

“We are grateful for the financial aid provided, which is a crucial lifeline for many struggling entrepreneurs. We encourage all eligible business owners to seek further information and take full advantage of the benefits available to them,” he stated.

The meeting also touched on various consumer issues currently affecting the region, Chan said, adding that Ewon was prompt in addressing these concerns, reaffirming his ministry’s dedication to ensuring that consumer rights are upheld and that the business environment remains conducive for growth and development.

“Looking ahead, the National Consumer Foundation is committed to fostering stronger cooperation between federal and state authorities to address both consumer and business-related issues more effectively. We believe that such collaboration will pave the way for a more resilient and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Sabah,” he said.