LIMBANG: Limbang is set to be connected to the state energy grid this July, a move that will further strengthen electricity supply in the division.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, said one of the government’s main priorities is to ensure a more stable and cost-effective electricity supply, while reducing reliance on diesel generators that incur high annual expenses.
“At present, electricity supply in Limbang and Lawas still depends heavily on diesel generators. Are we aware that the cost of purchasing diesel alone amounts to RM150 million a year?
“That is why we are accelerating the implementation of the state grid, so that electricity can be channelled directly to these areas.
“Alhamdulillah, Lawas was completed last December, and Limbang is expected to be connected by July this year,” he said.
He made these remarks in his speech during the opening ceremony of Sarawakku Sayang 2026 for the Limbang Division on Saturday.
He added that once the grid connection is completed, the people will no longer depend on diesel, thereby reducing costs as well as the impact of fuel price increases.
At the same time, he highlighted the government’s efforts to build a network of bridges throughout Sarawak to replace ferry services, which also rely on diesel.
“In the past, we depended on ferries; now we are building bridges. In Sarawak, we do not impose tolls—everything is funded by the state government for the convenience of the people,” he said.
Commenting on the future of energy, he stressed that Sarawak is on the right track by focusing on alternative and sustainable energy sources.
He explained that the state has four main energy sources—hydropower, solar, biomass and gas—which are capable of ensuring sufficient energy supply in the long term.
In addition, Sarawak is exploring hydrogen technology and green methanol production as future energy sources, including for the shipping industry.
“With sufficient energy resources, we are able to attract investors to Sarawak while at the same time maintaining control over energy tariffs,” he explained.
In this regard, he also reminded the people to continue preserving unity and harmony among the multi-ethnic community as the foundation of the state’s development.
“We are very fortunate. We must maintain our unity, our comradeship and our human relations. We are developing Sarawak for all, not just for one race,” he emphasised. -UKASnews
