BINTULU – Sarawak is set to roll out its second Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system in Bintulu, extending modern, hydrogen-powered transportation to Kidurong and Samalaju, forming a three-satellite mobility network to strengthen the region’s role as a key industrial and investment hub.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg confirmed the plans during the official opening of Imperial Hotel Bintulu on Wednesday.
“This means we will create three satellites from Bintulu to Kidurong, and Kidurong to Samalaju,” he said, outlining how the ART system will improve mobility and sustainability between these strategic areas.
A dedicated ART station and ‘satellite township’ will be built in Samalaju under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), with the hydrogen-fuelled ART network modeled after the system already being implemented in Kuching.
“This will definitely increase the efficiency of mobility between these three important centres,” Abang Zohari noted.
Energy Expansion to Match Mobility Growth
To meet future demands, Sarawak will also build a 500MW combined cycle gas power plant in Bintulu, with plans for a second 500MW facility later.
“Our target is to supply up to one gigawatt (1,000 MW) of electricity by 2035,” the Premier said, highlighting that the new plants will serve both residents and investors.
This expansion aligns with Sarawak’s broader goal to establish Bintulu as a major economic and investment powerhouse by 2035, supported by energy security and modern infrastructure.
Education to Support a Growing Global Community
Recognising Bintulu’s increasingly international demographic, the Premier also announced the establishment of a new international school.
“We expect an increase in the population, not only locals, but also foreigners who come to study and work in Bintulu,” he added.
All initiatives – ART connectivity, energy infrastructure, and education – form part of Sarawak’s strategic development blueprint to position Bintulu as a regional growth engine, attracting both domestic and global investment.
