KUCHING – Sarawak has achieved global recognition for its sustainable energy development following the Bakun Hydroelectric Plant’s receipt of two prestigious international honours.
The facility has been awarded both the International Hydropower Association’s Blue Planet Prize 2025 and Silver Certification under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard.
The awards ceremony held today saw Sarawak Energy Group CEO Datuk Haji Sharbini Suhaili presenting the Blue Planet Prize to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
The event was attended by senior state officials including Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Haji Julaihi Bin Haji Narawi.
Sarawak Energy had originally received the Blue Planet Prize on 9 September in Paris during the International Forum on Pumped Storage Hydropower.
This accolade recognises hydropower projects demonstrating exceptional sustainability performance through independent verification against rigorous environmental, social and governance criteria.
Earlier this month, on 3 September, the 2,520MW Bakun HEP had already secured HSS Silver Certification during the Sustainability & Renewable Energy Forum 4.0 in Kuching.
The certification from the Hydropower Sustainability Alliance acknowledged the facility’s excellence in multiple areas including community engagement, biodiversity protection, and climate resilience planning.
Commissioned in 2014, the Bakun facility remains Southeast Asia’s largest hydropower installation to achieve HSS certification.
It serves as the cornerstone of Sarawak’s renewable energy system alongside the Murum and Batang Ai hydroelectric plants, collectively forming a substantial clean energy network.
As Malaysia’s leading renewable energy developer and an IHA member since 2010, Sarawak Energy has consistently championed sustainable hydropower practices.
The company’s operations adhere to international benchmarks with a fundamental commitment that only sustainable hydropower represents acceptable development.
Beyond its hydroelectric operations, Sarawak Energy has expanded its influence in global energy transition discussions.
In March 2024, the organisation became Southeast Asia’s first global Patron of the World Energy Council, participating in international dialogues about energy policy and innovation.
The recent accolades reinforce Sarawak’s position as an emerging leader in sustainable energy development within the Asian region.
The state’s strategic focus on renewable resources aligns with global trends toward decarbonisation and environmentally responsible power generation.
The certification process for both awards involved comprehensive assessment of documented evidence, implemented policies, and demonstrated stakeholder engagement.
This rigorous evaluation ensures that recognised projects genuinely meet the highest standards of sustainable development.
