KUCHING: Sarawak has the potential to become the main energy hub for Malaysia and Asean, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said Sarawak could play a key role in the Asean Power Grid initiative with its rich energy resources, including hydropower, gas and hydrogen.
"The Asean Power Grid will enable energy interconnections between member states
"Sarawak's energy potential can be expanded to Sabah, Kalimantan and southern Philippines," he said at the state Gawai dinner here on Sunday (June 22) night.
Anwar said he would bring up this matter in an informal meeting with Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto next Friday (June 27).
"I have informed (Sarawak Premier Tan Sri) Abang Johari (Openg) that I will discuss an Asean Power Grid based in Sarawak for the benefit of both countries," he said.
Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi were the guests of honour at the dinner.
Also present were Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and federal and state dignitaries.
The Prime Minister also said the good relations between the Federal and Sarawak governments formed a strong basis for resolving issues.
In this respect, he said PETRONAS and state-owned Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) would move forward on the issue of gas distribution in the interests of both the nation and the state.
"The oil and gas industry needs PETRONAS and Sarawak needs Petros. We need both to work together for Sarawak and the nation," he said.
Earlier, Abang Johari said Sarawak was ready to contribute to the Asean Power Grid.
"We hope the vision of the Asean Power Grid will be realised as a catalyst for economic growth in the region," he said.
