KUCHING: Sarawak's emergence as a regional pioneer of renewable energy will open up new economic and investment opportunities for the state, says Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
The Sarawak Governor said the state was expanding the use of renewable energy, including hydro, solar and biomass, to ensure energy security and sustainability.
"This approach not only contributes towards environmental conservation, but it will also attract more quality investments to Sarawak.
"Renewable energy and low-carbon development will position Sarawak as a strategic destination for investment and technological cooperation," he said when opening the first meeting of the fifth term of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly here on Monday (May 11).
Wan Junaidi said Sarawak should maintain its momentum to become a recognised renewable energy hub and attract investors.
Besides green energy, he said the state government was also exploring the aerospace sector for future economic development.
"This sector has the potential to create new job opportunities for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance, satellite and drone technology, digital economy and data storage," he said.
He called for coordinated efforts between the government and educational institutions to ensure that Sarawak's talent development aligned with industry needs.
"Sarawak's success in exploring aerospace, green energy and digital economy depends on our capability to produce a highly-skilled workforce.
"With the right education and training, I believe Sarawakians can master the necessary expertise and skills for these new industries," he added.
Earlier, Wan Junaidi inspected a guard of honour comprising 105 police personnel during the opening ceremony.
This was followed by a doa recital before concluding with the national anthem "Negaraku" and state anthem "Ibu Pertiwiku".
Before the Governor's opening address, the state assembly observed a minute's silence for the late former Belaga assemblyman Datuk Seri Bo' Tajang Laing as well as Puan Sri Dr Yong Sau Kan, the wife of the late former deputy chief minister Tan Sri Wong Soon Kai.
Four Bills will be tabled during the current sitting, including the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, the Sarawak Padi and Rice Board Bill and two supplementary supply bills.
The sitting will conclude on May 20.
