The Sarawak government, Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd, and Japan’s Ministry of Trade, Economy, and Industry (METI) have taken a significant step forward in enhancing bilateral ties and driving economic growth through natural resource development. The meeting, held on Monday (Dec 16) in Tokyo, aimed at exploring ways to tap into Japan’s advanced technologies to support Sarawak’s industrial development and sustainability goals.
Among the key figures in attendance were Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, METI officials Yuzo Yamaguchi and Sarina Kishi, along with Pertama Ferroalloys’ chairman Hirotaka Suzuki and general manager Yuki Nakamura.
One of the main highlights of the meeting was the unveiling of Pertama Ferroalloys’ Green-Triple Nine Manganese initiative, which is set to play a crucial role in the company’s phase two operations. The project focuses on producing Electrolytic Manganese Metal (EMM) and High Purity Manganese Sulphate (HPMnS), both of which are recognized as vital components in industries such as steelmaking and electric vehicle (EV) battery production. These products, with a 99.9% manganese content, are considered essential for advancing clean energy and technology industries globally.
The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, praised the initiative, emphasizing how it aligns with Sarawak’s green technology initiatives and the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. He also recognized the potential for Pertama Ferroalloys to contribute to renewable energy solutions, particularly in solar battery storage.
The partnership between Sarawak and Japan highlights the importance of transferring cutting-edge environmental technologies, with Pertama Ferroalloys playing a key role as a bridge between the two regions. Yuki Nakamura reaffirmed their commitment to introducing advanced environmental management technologies from Japan to Sarawak, ensuring that the state’s development is in line with sustainable practices.
This collaboration between Sarawak and Japan marks a milestone in both regions’ economic and industrial aspirations, with a focus on critical mineral resources security, green technologies, and sustainable growth.
