UNDER the seventh strategic thrust of the Sarawak Budget ’25 on enhancing environmental sustainability, a sum of RM11 million will be set aside by the Sarawak government to establish the Sarawak Net Zero and Carbon Plan next year.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the allocation will also be for the implementation of Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance, 2023.
“Sarawak is at the forefront of the hydrogen economy, showcasing our commitment to innovation and our vision of becoming a regional leader in clean energy.
“In addition, Sarawak aims to play a central role in addressing global climate challenges, including the goal of Net Zero by 2050, while advancing our aspiration to become a regional renewable energy powerhouse,” he said.
He said this when tabling the second reading of the Sarawak Budget ’25 at the second meeting of the third session of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and New Economy Minister, said that in alignment with the state’s climate change strategy, Sarawak will also set aside RM1.5 million for forest carbon projects in Sarawak.
“Sarawak has issued four forest carbon permits covering 130,037 hectares. The issuance of these permits marks a pivotal achievement, reflecting Sarawak’s dedication to sustainable forest management while simultaneously creating new revenue opportunities through the sale of carbon credits in international markets,” he said.
On sustainable environmental management, Sarawak is committed to advancing environmental sustainability and Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles through significant investments in the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) and Sarawak Bio Industrial Park (SBP).
“With that, a total of RM1.5 million will be set aside for SBC to document traditional knowledge with indigenous communities that exemplifies inclusivity and equitable benefit-sharing.
“Additionally, RM3.3 million will be allocated to kickstart the construction of SBP, which will span 26 acres, thereby supporting a circular economy and enhancing environmental resilience,” he said.
