Hydropower Generates Over Half Of Sarawak's Power Now -- State Deputy Premier

KUCHING, Oct 24 (Bernama) -- More than 60 per cent of Sarawak’s electricity is now generated from hydropower, reflecting the state’s early success in decarbonising its energy sector and advancing towards a net-zero emissions goal by 2050, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

He said the milestone underscores Sarawak’s long-term strategy to balance energy security, affordability and sustainability under the Sarawak Energy Transition Policy (SET-P) and the Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint 2030.

“These frameworks embody our vision of growth that is sustainable, inclusive and innovation-driven, ensuring that progress today does not come at the expense of future generations,” he said when closing the 11th International Conference on Low Carbon Asia (ICLCA 2025) here today.

He said Sarawak is also expanding its renewable energy mix through green hydrogen production, carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiatives, and improved energy efficiency across industries.

"Sarawak is the first state in Malaysia to enact the Environment (Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction) Ordinance 2023, reflecting its proactive stance in addressing climate change," he said.

In advancing the circular economy agenda, Awang Tengah said Sarawak is prioritising Waste-to-Energy and integrated waste management solutions as a strategic pillar of the state’s low-carbon transition.

"This is not just about waste disposal, but transforming waste into a sustainable resource that supports energy security and generates long-term value,” he said.

He commended Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), particularly its Institute of Sustainable and Renewable Energy (ISuRE), for leading in the ongoing study on Integrated Waste Management Masterplan for Sarawak in partnership with Chemsains and the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA).

He said Sarawak’s approach combines academic expertise, industry capability, and government support to accelerate sustainable development while ensuring that the transition remains just and equitable.

“As we advance renewable energy, hydrogen, carbon capture and circular economy solutions, Sarawak is ensuring that this transformation is a just and equitable transition, where no one is left behind,” he said.

He also said that all stakeholders should build on the momentum from ICLCA 2025 by turning ideas into action, embedding them in policies and partnerships that drive tangible climate solutions.

“The success of this conference demonstrates that sustainability is achievable when we share knowledge, align our goals and work collectively,” he added.

-- BERNAMA