Water sector backbone of Sarawak’s industrial transformation, powering energy, hydrogen and data centre growth

Julaihi (eighth right) and the Sarawak delegation at the Singapore International Water Week 2026 on June 16, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 17: The water sector is no longer viewed as a basic utility service but has become the backbone of Sarawak’s modern industrial development, supporting key growth areas such as renewable energy, the hydrogen economy, advanced manufacturing, and the rapidly expanding data centre industry.

The Sarawak government has reiterated that this shift reflects the State’s long-term economic transformation agenda under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, where water is increasingly recognised as a strategic national asset.

In a TVS news, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the changing global landscape has elevated water security into a far more complex and strategic issue.

“Water security is no longer just an environmental issue. It has become an economic issue, a strategic issue, and increasingly a geopolitical issue,” he said when speaking at the Singapore International Water Week 2026 on Tuesday (June 16).

He noted that while Sarawak is richly endowed with natural water resources, these advantages must be managed prudently and sustainably to ensure long-term benefits.

“Water is not just a utility service, it is a strategic asset that will support Sarawak’s long-term economic transformation,” he added.

Julaihi further stressed that water infrastructure now plays a critical enabling role in powering the State’s industrial ecosystem and future economy.

He said the State’s long-term development policies will ensure the water sector continues to act as a key catalyst for growth, resilience, and sustainability in Sarawak’s economic future. — DayakDaily