KUCHING: Sarawak aims to complete its transportation networks, including roads and bridges, by 2027, leveraging well-devised financial planning as part of its comprehensive infrastructure strategy to support low-carbon ambitions.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state is making significant investments in infrastructure, such as low-carbon ports, deep-sea terminals, and modernised road networks like the Pan Borneo Highway.
He highlighted Sarawak’s proactive approach, emphasising the importance of both infrastructure and human capital in achieving these goals.
“First of all, we have to identify our weaknesses. I know that the urgent need is infrastructure.
“That’s why we have this low-carbon port, new airport, and also water supply, these basic infrastructure initiatives are in place.
“When I became the chief minister, the first thing I did, besides the Pan Borneo Highway, was our coastal road construction,” he said
He said this during the Fireside Chat Session during the Sarawak Gas Roadmap Summit 2024 here Monday (Nov 25), moderated by Boston Consulting Group managing director and senior partner, Vincent Chin, who asked about Sarawak’s infrastructure and human capital development to support companies setting up in the state.
Hence, Abang Johari addressed these concerns about human capital, emphasising the state’s strategy to balance local talent development with international expertise.
“In order to get those with the latest knowledge, in order for them to participate in this industry, we allow expatriates to come.
“Then there will be interaction with the expatriates and the locals. And our objective is not for us Sarawakians only. Our objective is to contribute to the global challenge on climate change.
“In other words, we allow foreigners to come and let them contribute together,” he said.
He added that there must be collaboration with foreign input and local input that will generate economic growth.
Besides, Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak’s strategic initiatives to set global benchmarks in CCUS, emphasising the state’s resourcefulness and proactive approach to innovation.
“In a federation like ours, a formula can be worked out. The federal government and Sarawak can collaborate to establish Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) trade between nations, leveraging Sarawak’s strength in CCUS storage.
“With our vast gas reserves, depleted wells can be repurposed for carbon injection and storage, which is all within our land jurisdiction under our land code,” he said.
