KUCHING – Sarawak is accelerating its transition to sustainable transportation with the development of a hydrogen-powered smart transit system, a key initiative in the state’s broader green mobility strategy. The project, which involves Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), will see the implementation of an Autonomous Flow Transit (ART) network.
This announcement was made by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg during the opening of the 11th International Low Carbon Asia Conference.
The Premier articulated the environmental imperative behind investing in this new technology, stating it is a necessary step to address global climate challenges.
“Why would Sarawak want to develop hydrogen-powered ART? The answer is because we must do something new to reduce the impact of climate change,” he affirmed to attendees at the conference.
The planned smart transport system is designed to create a vital link along the Samarahan-Kuching corridor.
As part of the supporting infrastructure, a dedicated hydrogen refuelling station will be established near the UNIMAS campus, forming a crucial link in the state’s expanding green infrastructure network.
The conference itself, organised by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in collaboration with UNIMAS, gathered 503 participants from 20 countries.
Under the theme “Innovative Pathways to Scalable Low-Carbon Solutions for Sustainable Development,” the event served as a global forum for researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to exchange ideas on low-carbon innovation, circular economy models, and biodiversity conservation.
Providing further technical details, the Premier disclosed that Sarawak has already constructed a prototype plant for hydrogen production. This facility utilises water electrolysis and currently has a capacity of producing 130 kilograms of hydrogen per day.
He acknowledged the current high energy intensity of the process, which consumes up to 60 kilowatts per hour for each kilogram of hydrogen produced.
Despite this challenge, he framed the project as a significant milestone. It represents a tangible commitment to the state’s policy of establishing a clean public transportation system for its citizens, positioning Sarawak at the forefront of green technology adoption in the region.
The event was also attended by several prominent figures, including Professor Datuk Dr Mohamad Hata Rasit, Vice-Chancellor of UNIMAS, and Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Sulong Matjeraie, Chairman of the university’s Board of Directors.
Their presence underscored the academic sector’s integral role in supporting the state’s sustainable development ambitions.
