KUCHING: Sarawak is taking bold steps toward sustainability and green energy, reinforcing its commitment to mitigating climate change through initiatives like carbon trading, renewable energy, and new technology adoption.
Sarawak Deputy Minister of Power and Environment, Datuk Dr. Hazland Abang Hipni, highlighted the state’s strategic efforts during the SHEDA Expo 2025 at the Chemsain Auditorium on Monday. He emphasized that 62% of Sarawak’s land remains covered in forests, positioning it as a key player in carbon trading.
Carbon Trading & Green Legislation
Sarawak has already enacted laws to support its green agenda, including the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Ordinance 2023 and the implementation of a carbon tax. These measures are expected to attract investment and accelerate the state’s transition toward a sustainable economy.
Harnessing Renewable Energy
Dr. Hazland stressed the importance of technical solutions in driving Sarawak’s green initiatives. Currently, 70% of Sarawak’s electricity is generated from hydroelectric power, with ambitious targets of achieving 10,000 megawatts by 2030 and 15,000 megawatts by 2035.
Additionally, Sarawak is diversifying its renewable energy mix by exploring solar energy, hydrogen, biomass, and wave energy to enhance sustainability.
Hydrogen Power & Green Mobility
The state is leading Malaysia’s hydrogen economy, with the first hydrogen production plant in Rembus, Samarahan, set for completion in the second quarter of next year. More hydrogen plants will be developed in Bintulu with investment partnerships from Japan and Korea, reinforcing Sarawak’s position as a green energy hub.
Sustainable Development in Construction
To support eco-friendly development, Sarawak promotes the use of sustainable building certifications such as the GreenRE Green Building Index (GBI) and LEED. The state government also encourages developers to integrate Building Information Modeling (BIM) and efficient water and energy management systems into new construction projects.
Sarawak’s Role in Malaysia’s Net-Zero Goal
Dr. Hazland emphasized that Sarawak is already in a ‘carbon negative’ position, making it a key player in helping Malaysia achieve its net carbon emissions target by 2050.
With its strong focus on green energy, carbon trading, and sustainable development, Sarawak is set to become a leader in environmental conservation and renewable energy in Malaysia. — UKASnews
