BY GOH PEI PEI & NOOR SYAHHIRA HADY
KUCHING: Sarawak is making significant strides in the field of green energy, leveraging its abundant natural resources to drive sustainable development.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak is committed to advancing in green energy, however, it was necessary to realise the importance of skilled human capital in materialising these goals.
“In Sarawak, we are blessed with resources that have allowed us to venture into green energy, positioning us as a leader in the field.
“From agriculture to power generation, we have the necessary assets or ‘the right ingredients’ to fuel our journey towards green economy
“The only thing we are currently lacking is skilled workforce to support the burgeoning green economy,” he said.
Therefore, he wanted the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) to focus on producing talent specifically tailored to meet the demands of the green economy.
He said it was crucial to invest in human capital development and good education for the children in Sarawak to ensure they are equipped with relevant knowledge and skills needed for the future, to meet the demands of the green economy.
Speaking at the 8th Convocation Ceremony of Centexs held at Santubong on Monday, Abang Johari said Sarawak was already making strides in production.
He noted that while the initial costs may be high, the widespread adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source is imminent, particularly as the world is now prioritising environmental sustainability and combatting climate change.
In addition to producing hydrogen, Abang Johari emphasised the need for skilled individuals capable of maintaining and operating hydrogen-powered vehicles and machinery.
Expressing optimism about hydrogen’s potential as a future energy source, he highlighted Sarawak’s ability to supply clean and reliable electricity at competitive rates, which he believes will attract investors and create job opportunities.
“We want our Sarawakians to be prepared to seize these opportunities and contribute to our sustainable development journey.
“By investing in human capital development, we are laying the foundation for a greener, more prosperous future for Sarawak and its people,” he added.
He was confident Sarawak’s commitment to harnessing its natural resources for sustainable development while prioritising the development of a skilled workforce would drive the region’s green economy forward.
