KUCHING: The second phase of the microalgae project in the state is scheduled to begin soon.
This was discussed during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Chitose Group to Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Openg Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia yesterday (Feb 6).
The delegation, led by Chitose Group’s CEO, Dr Tomohiro Fujita, and accompanied by the chief bioengineer cum executive officer, Dr Takanori Hoshino, aimed to discuss the upcoming second phase of the microalgae project, which is set to commence shortly.
“We are excited to collaborate with the Sarawak government and intend to showcase our progress to the public.
Additionally, we plan to expand the existing microalgae production facility in the Sejingkat area, which covers an area of 100 hectares,” said Dr. Takanori.
According to the Chitose Group, the construction of the five-hectare microalgae production facility in the Sejingkat area has been completed, and microalgae production has already begun.
Last year, the Chitose Carbon Capture Central Sarawak (C4 Sarawak), Sarawak’s first industrial microalgae production, was officially launched.
The microalgae project, initiated in 2020, is led by Japan’s Chitose Group, Sarawak Energy, and Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC).
The project is fully funded by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) and managed by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI).
Chitose Group is responsible for cultivating and producing microalgae biomass, as well as conducting product research and development.
Sarawak Energy provides the necessary exhaust gas containing carbon dioxide from its coal-fired power plant through a flue gas delivery system to cultivate microalgae.
Meanwhile, SBC offers qualified researchers and skilled manpower to assist in the successful cultivation and production of high-quality microalgae biomass.
