KUCHING: The federal Ministry of Economy is keen to work with the Sarawak government on developing carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) initiatives.
This was one of the key issues highlighted during the courtesy visit of Minister of Economy Rafizi Ramli to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here on Wednesday.
Sarawak, along with Sabah, Terengganu, and Pahang, has been identified as one of four states with significant potential to become a CCUS hub within the next five years.
When met by reporters, Rafizi stressed the need to align federal and state regulations to facilitate smooth implementation of CCUS projects.
He shared that the federal government aims to introduce comprehensive CCUS legislation by the end of the year, while Sarawak has already established its regulatory framework under state law.
Highlighting Sarawak’s strategic advantage, Rafizi underscored the economic and environmental benefits of successful CCUS initiatives.
“In Sarawak, we focused on harmonising state and federal laws to streamline CCUS development.
“I’m pleased that there is collective support for Malaysia’s progress.
“CCUS is a cutting-edge initiative that, if effectively implemented within the next five years, will put us ahead.
“It will create numerous high-paying jobs and strengthen our leadership in the energy transition,” he said.
With ongoing discussions in all four states, Rafizi expressed confidence in the nationwide progress.
“Each of the identified states has now conducted engagement sessions on CCUS legislation, laying a solid foundation for future projects,” he added.
Also present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
