SIBU: Sarawak is positioning itself as the leading hub for renewable energy in the Asean region, with a comprehensive development strategy that focuses on economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said Sarawak's transition into a green economy is well underway, driven by technological innovation, renewable resources and a strong commitment to sustainability.
"Our development strategy rests on three pillars – economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability. I am proud to say that Sarawakians have responded positively to this direction," he said at the Rimbunan Hijau Group of Companies' 50th anniversary celebration on Tuesday (May 13) night.
He highlighted the state's progression from a digital economy to one centred on green energy, particularly renewable sources such as hydrogen, supported by artificial intelligence and digitalisation.
"After introducing our digital economy, we migrated to what we call real green energy. Now we are focusing on renewable energy. Using AI and digitalisation enhances this new era of our economic strategy," he said.
Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak's abundance of natural resources provides a competitive advantage in renewable energy production.
"We are fortunate to be blessed with water and gas resources that enable the extraction of hydrogen – the cleanest form of energy – to replace fossil fuels. Hydrogen from water and methane offers us a viable alternative fuel to power our economy," he said.
He added that Sarawak's ultimate goal is to become the hub of renewable energy in Asean through the "Asean Green" initiative.
"We must align our economy with ESG principles. We have the resources, but what is crucial now is the development of our human capital," he said.
Reflecting on a recent engagement with the London School of Economics, Abang Johari shared that international academics recognised Sarawak's potential.
"The professors at LSE said we are very fortunate in our part of the world – Borneo and Sarawak – because we possess what is now termed 'natural capital': untouched forests acting as carbon sinks, abundant hydrogen potential and people who can be trained."
He said the synergy between natural capital and human capital, driven by innovation and entrepreneurship, would allow Sarawak to thrive in the green economy.
"With the success of initiatives like Rimbunan Hijau and our continued focus on green development, I am confident Sarawak will become 'hijau, hijau, hijau' (green) for the world economy," he said.
