KUCHING: Sarawak is transitioning towards a green economy that prioritises sustainable development while minimising environmental degradation.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the transition focuses on decoupling economic growth from carbon emissions and resource depletion, ensuring long-term economic and ecological resilience.
“Sarawak is laying the groundwork for a future where financial success is aligned with environmental stewardship by integrating renewable energy sources such as hydropower, solar, and biomass,” he said.
He said was delivering his keynote address at the Sarawak Future Forum 2024 at Sheraton Hotel here, today.
Abang Johari said driven by changes in economic growth and the implementation of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), the state aims to double its gross domestic product (GDP) from RM136 billion in 2019 to RM282 billion in 2030 and create an additional 195,000 job opportunities.
“A cornerstone of Sarawak’s economic transformation is its commitment to renewable energy. With substantial hydropower capacity, the state already leads the region in clean energy production.
“However, Sarawak is expanding its renewable portfolio, targeting an impressive 15GW capacity by 2035.
“This strategic expansion positions Sarawak as a regional powerhouse in green energy, capable of exporting sustainable power to neighbouring countries, including Singapore, Indonesia and beyond,” he added.
He also said that in tandem with its green initiatives, Sarawak is embracing a circular economy model that minimises waste by maximising resource efficiency.
“Sarawak is reducing reliance on finite resources while fostering sustainable practices across sectors by implementing strategies such as utilising agricultural residues for bioenergy.
“This commitment to recycling, reusing, and repurposing materials further reinforces Sarawak’s leadership in transitioning to a low-carbon economy,” he said.
On a related note, Abang Johari stressed that the green hydrogen is at the forefront of Sarawak’s clean energy strategy that is a zero-emission fuel with the potential to decarbonise hard-to-abate industries.
“We aim to become a key exporter of hydrogen, particularly to South Korea and Japan, aligning with their national net-zero strategies.
“Furthermore, Sarawak is developing a robust hydrogen transportation and storage infrastructure, allowing for seamless export to international markets.
“By leveraging its geographical advantage and proximity to key Asian economies, Sarawak can become a major supplier of clean hydrogen, further diversifying its economy,” said Abang Johari.
