BINTULU: OM Materials Sarawak has been encouraged to explore opportunities to further repurpose its production waste into other products, aligning with Sarawak’s push towards a circular economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari suggested that the company consider producing ferro calcium cored wire (CaFeCW) from ferroalloy materials, stressing that this tough wire could have applications in producing screws suitable for shipbuilding, aircraft manufacturing, and other steel-based products.
“Maybe you can give this a thought. Since your products (ferroalloys) are eco-friendly, you could establish another factory to produce CaFe CW from your ferroalloy,” he saidduring the company’s 10th anniversary gala dinner at ParkcityEverly Hotel here, last night.
He pointed out that Sarawak is currently constructing a lot of roads such as the Pan Borneo Highway, Coastal Highway, and in future feeder roads in the next five to 10 years connecting all the longhouses and villages.
He noted that as stone resources for road-building are limited, OM Materials’ waste materials could serve as a valuable alternative for construction.
“We may not be able to produce stones, therefore, perhaps your waste can be used as part of the construction materials for our roads.
“This would integrate your supply chain into our circular economy and create additional value from your ferroalloy production. You can expand downstream to support a sustainable economy,” he said.
Moreover, with the recent launch of the Sustainable Blueprint for Sarawak’s economy, which outlines 10 core thrusts, Abang Johari emphasised that sustainable manufacturing is a priority for the state, encouraging OM Materials to develop a roadmap using ferroalloy manganese as a foundation, focusing on downstream products that align with Sarawak’s sustainability goals.
This, he suggested, could potentially open opportunities to export OM’s by-products internationally.
“Nevertheless, I must congratulate your company for exploring new products, new processes, and embracing the green technology in your production.
“With that, you are aligned with the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, and the objective of the state to produce sustainable products from Sarawak using green energy,” he said.
