BINTULU – The Premier Environmental Awards (PSEA) 2025/2026 were officially launched at the Imperial Hotel here on Thursday, marking the state’s highest accolade for excellence in environmental management and sustainable development.
Deputy Minister of Town Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, inaugurated the event, emphasizing that the awards represent a movement inspiring broader ecological responsibility.
Since its establishment in 2001, the PSEA has served as a platform for recognizing innovation and leadership in sustainability. Datuk Len noted that the awards encourage entities to exceed legal compliance and integrate sustainable practices into daily operations.
He also highlighted Sarawak’s pioneering role in national environmental governance, citing the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance 2024 and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Ordinance 2023 as landmark legislations positioning the state as Malaysia’s first with explicit climate laws.
Sarawak’s green initiatives, including the Sustainability Blueprint 2030, Net Zero 2050 Vision, and advancements in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and waste management, were underscored as critical to the state’s strategy.
The government is also exploring innovative projects such as hydrogen production from livestock waste and a biomass facility in Lubok Antu.
Datu Jack Liam, Controller of Environmental Quality of Sarawak, reported a significant rise in award participation, from 99 entries in 2017/2018 to 212 in 2023/2024, reflecting growing environmental awareness.
The 12th edition introduces new categories, including fisheries and aquaculture, with independent audits ensuring rigorous assessment. The theme, “Strengthening Environmental Endeavours for a Resilient Sarawak,” calls for enhanced policies, green innovation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.