KUCHING: Sarawak is expected to begin exporting electricity to Brunei Darussalam in 2028 as part of efforts to expand energy cooperation with neighbouring countries and generate additional revenue for the state.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said Sarawak is currently sharing its energy with West Kalimantan and Sabah, with Brunei expected to follow in 2028.

According to him, Sarawak is targeting an energy generation capacity of 10 gigawatts (GW), or 10,000 megawatts (MW), by 2030, increasing to 15 GW, or 15,000 MW, by 2035.

“Sarawak only requires 7 GW for current industries. However, if our industries expand, then of course we can increase our energy consumption. By 2035, we will be generating 15 GW, or 15,000 MW.

“And we share this with our neighbours, including West Kalimantan and Sabah at present.

“In 2028, God willing, Brunei will follow, and after that we will send it to Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. This means additional revenue for Sarawak,” he said.

He said this while speaking at the Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs Chamber (DUBS) Gala Dinner held at a leading hotel here on Sunday.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari added that the availability of surplus energy capacity would also help attract investors, particularly industries requiring energy supply at competitive prices.

He explained that the entry of new investments would create high-paying jobs and generate business value chains that would also open up opportunities for local businesses.

“Once we have energy, it becomes an attraction for investment because energy-intensive investments will go to places where energy is available at a competitive price.

“So, if we have this, investment will naturally come in, creating high-paying jobs and generating business value chains including for local businesses.

“If this happens, it means we will have new businesses,” he explained. -UKASnews