KUCHING: Sarawak is strengthening its new energy strategy as a long-term buffer for resilience, while enhancing the state’s preparedness in facing global uncertainties, particularly those related to fluctuations in fuel prices.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said reliance on conventional fuels such as diesel, which are exposed to geopolitical pressures, requires an immediate shift towards more stable and sustainable alternative energy sources.

According to him, current technological advances are also accelerating the potential of hydrogen energy as a more competitive and viable option.

“With today’s diesel prices, hydrogen production will be much cheaper than diesel.

“The electrolysis process will be far cheaper due to new membrane technology, and with diesel under current geopolitical pressures, I believe this will not end in this era. Problems will arise. What I mean is that alternative energy will be used, and we are fortunate. Sarawak is ready,” he said.

He said this during a press conference after officiating the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Convention at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.

He added that this state of readiness is also reflected in the expansion of renewable energy use in rural areas, including solar energy initiatives in Baram, which previously relied on diesel generators.

He explained that the implementation of the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES), based on solar energy, not only reduces dependence on diesel but also helps shield rural communities from the impact of rising fuel prices, thereby ensuring that the well-being of the people continues to be safeguarded.

Also present at the press conference were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Deputy Premier and President of the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, President of the Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy President of the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, the Secretary-General of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Sarawak, as well as other distinguished guests. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Nur Nabilla
Photo: Clevelance Sam
Translator: Uilson Ng