KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is studying more cost-efficient methods of electricity generation, including coal, as rising production costs continue to drive higher tariffs felt by consumers.
Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said while the government is still subsidising electricity, current sales rates remain insufficient to fully cover actual generation costs.
“We are looking at how to generate electricity more efficiently and at lower cost. If you want cheaper electricity, then we must use cheaper fuel such as coal.
“But at the same time, globally coal is being rejected due to its environmental impact. For me, Sabah is net carbon positive, so actually there is no problem,” he told reporters at the Beaufort-level Kaamatan Festival at Dewan PaK Musa about 100km from here Saturday (May 16).
Dr Gunsalam, who is state Works and Utilities Minister, said this amid increased electricity tariff since February this year that has been compounded by rising fuel prices and consumer concerns over higher bills.
On the Kaamatan festival, he said that the festivity played a important part to enhance unity among Sabah’s diverse communities.
He said Kaamatan is not only a harvest celebration but a platform to strengthen harmony and preserve cultural heritage.
“ Sabah’s unique traditions remain a vital tourism asset contributing to the state’s development,” he added.
