KUCHING – The Malaysian Engineering Institution (IEM) Sarawak Branch has been recognised as a key player in advancing Sarawak’s transition towards a sustainable and innovation-driven economy.
Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, emphasised that climate change remains a global challenge requiring urgent solutions to safeguard future generations.
He noted that Sarawak’s green economy agenda is central to this effort, with renewable energy development positioned as a cornerstone in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions.
The Premier highlighted that IEM Sarawak is instrumental in driving infrastructure innovation to support this agenda.
He expressed confidence that the Sarawak Free Higher Education Scheme (FTES) will produce more qualified local engineers, strengthening the state’s engineering sector and ensuring a steady supply of talent to meet future demands.
Abang Johari made these remarks while officiating the Annual Dinner of IEM Sarawak in Kuching. The event also marked several significant collaborations, including the exchange of three Letters of Intent (LOI) between IEM Sarawak and the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia (ASEM), SOLARVEST, and Saint-Gobain Malaysia.
Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with the Construction Industry Development Board of Malaysia (CIDB), signalling stronger partnerships in engineering and infrastructure development.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Works Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Development Sarawak Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, and Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Sarawak Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni.
Also, present were IEM President Professor Engineer Jeffrey Chiang Charles Ong Luin and IEM Sarawak Branch Chairman Insinyir Dr Angelia Liew San Chuin.
These collaborations are expected to accelerate Sarawak’s progress in renewable energy, semiconductor technology, and sustainable construction.
Industry experts have noted that partnerships between government, academia, and industry are vital in ensuring Sarawak’s economy remains competitive while meeting global sustainability standards.
The Premier reiterated that Sarawak’s transformation into a new economy requires innovation, resilience, and skilled manpower.
With IEM Sarawak at the forefront, the state aims to position itself as a leader in green technology and sustainable development, aligning with its broader vision under the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
