Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi has dismissed claims made by Ba’Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian, asserting that Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas), Cahya Mata Sarawak Bhd, and Gamuda Bhd are strong contenders for the construction of the Trusan and Baram dams.
During his ministerial winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly sitting, the Minister for Utility and Telecommunication clarified that the Sarawak government has not reached a decision to proceed with either dam. Sarawak Energy is currently conducting feasibility studies for the Trusan Hydroelectric project and considering the cascading dams scheme.
“All key stakeholders, including local representatives, leaders, and communities in the area, will be engaged. We have yet to make any decision to proceed with the Trusan or Baram dams at this stage.”
Julaihi pointed out that a Strategic Collaboration Agreement signed between Sarawak Energy and Gentari Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Petronas, on June 27, 2023, was aimed at exploring collaboration opportunities in developing and deploying clean energy solutions in Sarawak.
“Therefore, the report raised by the Ba’Kelalan assemblyman suggesting Petronas, Cahya Mata Sarawak Bhd, and Gamuda Bhd as strong contenders for the construction of the Trusan and Baram dams is inaccurate.
“For the record, I would like to reiterate here (that) there has been no final decision made as yet on the Trusan and Baram dams,” Julaihi reaffirmed.
