TOKYO — Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg delivered a powerful keynote address at the World Hydrogen Asia Conference 2025 in Tokyo, positioning Sarawak as a regional leader in the global green hydrogen economy.
In his address titled “Sarawak’s Hydrogen Vision: Catalysing Green Growth for ASEAN and Beyond,” the Premier highlighted Sarawak’s integrated hydrogen strategy as a transformative bridge between energy innovation, climate action, and inclusive industrial progress.
“Hydrogen is not just a clean molecule — it connects energy and climate, industry and innovation, and nations to a sustainable future,” he said to a gathering of international energy leaders and policymakers.
He outlined the rapid advancement of the Sarawak Hydrogen Economy Roadmap (SHER) launched earlier this year, which places Sarawak at the forefront of scalable, cost-effective hydrogen production for both domestic use and global export.
Sarawak’s transition from fossil fuels has already led to a 72 per cent reduction in grid carbon emissions from 2010 to 2023 — a milestone that underscores its leadership in green energy under Malaysia’s national decarbonisation goals.
Major Projects and Milestones
Key projects highlighted during the speech include:
- The H2biscus and H2ornbill hydrogen ventures, now entering the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) stage.
- The Kuching Urban Transport System (KUTS), which integrates hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles and buses.
- The Rembus Hydrogen Plant, slated to produce 5,000kg of hydrogen daily to power 38 ART trains and 55 hydrogen buses.
The Premier also spotlighted a rural innovation success story — a hybrid hydrogen energy system powering the Long Loyang Health Clinic, now operating 24/7 using hydrogen generated from rainwater and solar energy. It is the first project of its kind in Malaysia.
“This is not merely a pilot project — it’s a promise kept. Innovation must reach every corner of Sarawak, including rural communities,” he said.
Global Recognition for Sarawak’s Industrial Ambitions
In a significant development, the Premier announced that Bintulu has been recognised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as Malaysia’s first Transitional Industrial Cluster (TIC), placing Sarawak among 35 global clusters in 16 countries contributing to over 66% of global GDP.
“This international recognition validates our commitment to building a low-carbon industrial ecosystem that supports both economic growth and environmental responsibility,” he said.
Invitation for Global Collaboration
Wrapping up his address, the Sarawak Premier extended an open call to industry leaders and global investors to join Sarawak in scaling the hydrogen economy for shared prosperity.
“Sarawak has taken the first step. Now, we invite the world to walk with us on this journey of clean energy, innovation and inclusive growth,” he concluded.
The Premier’s Tokyo visit reinforces Sarawak’s emergence as a central player in Asia’s energy transition and a global benchmark in hydrogen-driven transformation.