KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is intensifying efforts to reduce reliance on diesel through the implementation of various infrastructure development projects and alternative energy initiatives across the state.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the proactive measures are crucial in safeguarding the wellbeing of the people, especially amid global economic uncertainty arising from conflicts in West Asia that have impacted global oil prices and the cost of living.

According to him, high-impact initiatives such as the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES) have successfully provided 24-hour electricity supply to rural communities through the use of solar energy.

“Residents no longer need to worry about the high and fluctuating cost of diesel, as we transitioned from diesel generators to solar about six years ago. As a result, we are not affected by rising diesel prices,” he said.

He said this at a press conference after chairing a Sarawak Cabinet Meeting at the Satria Pertiwi Complex on Thursday.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari also stressed that the construction of toll-free bridges to replace ferry services in several locations across Sarawak is a strategic move to reduce diesel consumption.

“With six bridges completed so far and four more expected this year, savings amounting to millions of ringgit from discontinuing ferry services, and consequently diesel usage, can be channelled back to the people,” he said.

Also present at the press conference were Sarawak Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, as well as Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki. -UKASnews