KUCHING – Sarawak is positioning itself as a global leader in clean energy and sustainable development, with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg emphasising the state’s unique role as a “petro-electro-state”.
Speaking at the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Excellence and Service Awards Night 2026, the premier commended officers for their dedication in safeguarding Sarawak’s environment while supporting the state’s rapid economic transformation.
He described the event as both a celebration of service and a reminder of the collective responsibility to uphold Sarawak’s vision of sustainable progress.
“As Sarawak moves forward, let us remain guided by integrity, driven by excellence and committed to responsible development that benefits the people while protecting the environment,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that the success of policies and systems depends on the commitment of public officers, noting that human dedication is essential in translating aspirations into meaningful outcomes.
He also highlighted climate change as one of the century’s defining challenges, pointing to Sarawak’s decisive steps in renewable energy development.
Sarawak’s clean energy journey began with hydropower and has since expanded into solar, low-carbon gas, and hydrogen initiatives.
The Premier acknowledged that hydrogen was initially met with scepticism due to high production costs, but technological advances have made it increasingly competitive with fossil fuels.
“Six years ago, many questioned whether hydrogen could become a practical energy source. Today, the cost comparison between hydrogen and diesel is becoming increasingly competitive,” he explained.
He added that three litres of diesel are equivalent to one kilogram of hydrogen, and rising fossil fuel prices have strengthened hydrogen’s case as an alternative fuel.
International research, he noted, is rapidly reducing the energy required to produce hydrogen, potentially making it cheaper than conventional fuels in the future.
“This confirms that the decision Sarawak made six years ago to pursue hydrogen was the right one,” he said.
The Premier also cited rural electrification projects that replaced diesel generators with solar-powered systems, enabling communities to maintain electricity supplies without fuel-related disruptions.
Advances in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which can store solar energy for up to 12 hours, are expected to further accelerate renewable adoption.
Global experts have increasingly recognised Sarawak as an “electro-state” due to its abundant renewable resources and strategic energy infrastructure.
Unlike many regions reliant solely on fossil fuels, Sarawak combines renewable electricity generation with natural gas reserves, placing it in a unique global position.
This distinctive status, coupled with Sarawak’s relatively small population and rich natural resources, has attracted international scientists and researchers seeking collaboration in emerging technologies and sustainable development.
The Premier’s remarks reinforced Sarawak’s ambition to lead the global green transition while ensuring economic growth remains aligned with environmental stewardship.
