Sarawak Emerging As Regional Renewable-energy Powerhouse - Abang Johari

KUCHING, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- Sarawak remains a growing attraction for global investors, particularly in the renewable energy sector, as the state intensifies efforts to transition into a regional renewable-energy “powerhouse”.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state’s diverse low-carbon resources,  including hydropower, biomass, natural gas and hydrogen, position Sarawak as a significant player in the emerging “new economy”, where clean and sustainable energy solutions are increasingly prioritised.

“It also includes generating energy from waste... and Sarawak is the first in Malaysia to have a law on the selection of waste and to manage the process of waste. This is the Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill 2025, passed at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly yesterday,” he told reporters when met at the Japan-Sarawak Renewable Energy Investment Forum here today.

The event was organised by Yamada Consulting and Spire, supported by the Sarawak Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability.

Also present was the managing director of ASEAN and India Yamada Consulting and Spire Singapore Pte Ltd, Go Sakano.

Abang Johari said Sarawak’s commitment to renewable-energy advancement was further demonstrated by the new law enabling waste-to-energy development, supporting the state’s ambition to transform waste into an economic resource and reinforcing Sarawak’s position at the forefront of clean-energy initiatives.

“As we move into this new economy, Sarawak will continue to attract investors who share our vision for a sustainable future,” he said.

The Bill, tabled by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, received majority support and aims to strengthen the state’s governance while modernising waste-recovery practices.

Meanwhile, in delivering his keynote address at the forum, Abang Johari said he looked forward to partnerships with Japanese companies exploring opportunities in Sarawak’s renewable-energy industry, particularly those offering advanced technologies.

“You have your company, the bank supports you, and we’ve got the resources. Combined, we become a major player in energy in this part of the world,” he said.

-- BERNAMA