Water to drive Sarawak’s future economic growth, says Premier

KUCHING (Dec 10): Water has emerged as a key commodity in shaping Sarawak’s future economy, driving the state toward a resilient and sustainable development path.

Citing a report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said water is becoming increasingly crucial as Sarawak transitions into modern industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors.

“Like in some other countries that export water to nations in need, we are now transitioning to modern technologies such as AI and semiconductors. These new industries require water for cooling systems.

“In other words, if demand for water increases, countries with a surplus may share or supply water to those lacking this resource,” he said.

He made the remarks during a press conference after delivering the plenary keynote titled “Water: Driving Sarawak’s Resilient and Sustainable Future” at the International Water Association Congress & Exhibition on Water Development (WDCE 2025) at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand on Tuesday.

In efforts to protect the environment, Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak’s water resources should be managed as a potential source for other industries such as hydrogen production.

He also noted that Sarawak has taken steps in the carbon trading industry to support the global sustainability agenda.

“Water is therefore very important in this transformation. We hope the International Water Association will conduct extensive studies on balancing water use for industry and for addressing climate issues,” he added.

Also present were Malaysian Ambassador to Thailand Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah, Sarawak Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Sarawak Chief Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, International Water Association (IWA) President Dr Hemanth Kasan, IWA Executive Director Dr Kala Vairavamoorthy, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Datuk Liwan Lagang, and other dignitaries.

Following his keynote, the Premier, along with other attendees, officiated the Malaysian Water Association (Sarawak Branch) pavilion. This was followed by visits to the International Water Association and Netherlands pavilions.