SIBU: Sarawak is set to reach another milestone in hydrogen economy development with the first phase of the Hydrogen Hub for the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system scheduled for completion by the end of this year.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the development of the hub marks a significant step forward in Sarawak's efforts to translate hydrogen technology from the research and pilot project stage into practical implementation that delivers tangible benefits to the people.

He said the project also proves that green technology is now being applied in modern public transport systems, in line with the state's energy transition and low-carbon development agenda.

“By the end of this year, Phase One of the Hydrogen Hub for the ART system is scheduled for completion.

“This project proves that hydrogen technology is no longer merely a concept for the future but is becoming a reality in Sarawak,” he said.

He said this in his address at the Sarawak Day Assembly and Konsert Rakyat at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang here on Wednesday.

Present to grace the celebration were Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

The Sarawak Premier added that the expertise developed by Sarawak in the hydrogen economy is expected to serve as a reference for Malaysia in expanding the use of hydrogen as a future energy source.

In a related development, he said Sarawak's advances in hydropower, hydrogen and low-carbon industries would not only benefit the people of the state but also support Malaysia in meeting its international commitments to reduce carbon emissions, increase the adoption of renewable energy and strengthen the nation's energy security.

According to him, Sarawak's development should be viewed as an integral part of Malaysia's broader economic agenda, given the state's role as a green energy hub capable of attracting greater investment, driving the growth of new industries and enhancing the country's global competitiveness.

“When Sarawak becomes a green energy hub, Malaysia will have a stronger energy foundation to attract investment, develop new industries and compete on the global stage,” he said.

He added that Sarawak's leadership in green energy development would not only strengthen the state's economic value but also contribute to Malaysia's aspiration of building a low-carbon economy and a more sustainable energy system.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, Minister for Transport and Minister Responsible for the Sarawak Day 2026 Celebration Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Federal and Sarawak Ministers, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Ministers, heads of departments and other distinguished guests. -UKASnews