KUCHING: Palm oil producers should explore palm oil sludge as a source of energy, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said.
He said palm oil sludge, apart from being an energy source, has a value as it is a component used in the manufacture of solar panel protection films.
“I want to share with you my observation of the palm oil industry. You plant oil palm, you produce palm oil, but you also produce biomass or sludge, and this sludge has a value.
“When people manufacture solar panels, where solar absorbs energy from the sun and uses that energy for other purposes, there is a new technology for protecting the solar panel films, and one of the oils required is palm oil sludge,” he said his speech during the awards presentation of the 10th Premier of Sarawak Environmental Award (PSEA) 2021/2022 here, last night (Dec 14).
Abang Johari, who is also Energy and Environmental Sustainability Minister, hoped palm oil producers will consider his proposal.
“This is what we call a circular economy … I hope the industry will look into it as I believe the value of our palm oil will be recognised, especially by the EU, if we have an ecosystem.
“I hope we can be innovative and produce products that are sustainable,” he said.
PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd (Sarawak Asset) – Bintulu Integrated Facility (Large Enterprise), Shin Yang Sdn Bhd – Linau Forest Management Unit – T/3228 (Medium Enterprise), Kuching North City Hall (Local Authorities), Miri Port Authority (Government Sector), Datuk Chris Chung Soon Nam (Open Category) and The Round Tower 1886 Cafe & Restaurant (Eateries and Food Outlet Category) took the top awards for the 10th PSEA 2021/2022.
The awards were the state’s recognition for participating industries, organisations and individuals for their commitment in reducing the impact of their operations on the environment, embracing environmental stewardship and engaging themselves in sustainable development.
Among those present were Energy and Environmental Sustainability Deputy Minister Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Urban Development and Natural Resources Deputy Minister Datuk Len Talif Salleh, Sarawak Business Federation (SBF) secretary general Datuk Jonathan Chai who represented SBF president Datuk Abang Abdul Karim Tun Openg, and Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak Controller of Environmental Quality Peggy Ronin Edin.
