The Sarawak Energy Transition Policy (SET-P) is set to ensure Sarawak with “a sustainable, clean and prosperous energy future”, said the Premier of Sarawak YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
Unveiling its preliminary overview during his keynote address ‘Green Hydrogen: The Sarawak Strategy for a Sustainable Future’ at Asia Pacific Green Hydrogen Conference and Exhibition 2024 (APGH 2024), he explained that the policy would be executed through a “multi-dimensional approach”, merging policy, regulation, technology, infrastructure and community engagement by incorporating principles of innovation, inclusivity and global best practices.
“Some refer to this concept as ‘hypernomics’, highlighting the transformative impact of leveraging advanced infrastructure and fostering robust community involvement.
“‘Hypernomics’ envisions a synergistic framework where these elements work in harmony, driving down costs and significantly enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of our energy transition efforts,” he added.
SET-P is expected to focus on four key sectors, each with its own set of goals:
- The power sector aims to ensure reliable, renewable, and efficient energy generation and distribution;
- The transportation sector concentrates on promoting green mobility solutions to reduce carbon emissions and enhance connectivity;
- The industry sector strives towards encouraging sustainable practices and innovations to boost economic growth while protecting the environment; and
- The building sector (residential and commercial) aspires to advance energy-efficient designs and technologies to create sustainable living and working spaces.
The Premier further stated that the success of the policy is dependent on the effective implementation of a number of key enablers, namely policy and regulatory support; financing and investment; technology and infrastructure; skills and talent; and public awareness.
“To facilitate this transition, we will focus on eight types of energies and technologies such as renewable energy, hydrogen, energy efficiency, green mobility, synthetic fuels, bioenergy, oil and gas, and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS),” he noted.
The inaugural APGH 2024 took place at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching from 10 to 12 June 2024 and was organised by Borneo Business Connect Sdn Bhd, with the support of the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Sarawak and Business Events Sarawak.
It saw the participation of more than 100 exhibitors from global organisations and around 500 local and international conference delegates – comprising industry leaders, policymakers, experts and stakeholders – as they explored and promoted the potential of green hydrogen.
In his keynote address, the Premier also announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Clean Energy based in Sarawak.
The upcoming centre would serve as a hub of innovation, research and development in the clean energy sector for scientists, engineers, policymakers and industry leaders to work together in pioneering cutting-edge technologies harnessing renewable resources.
“It will drive advancements in clean energy domains such as hydrogen, hydroelectric, solar energy, biomass and other emerging forms.
“Our focus will be on sustainable energy solutions that address present needs while safeguarding the well-being of future generations,” he elaborated.
Additionally, the Premier highlighted Sarawak’s ongoing commitment to drive its energy transition and tackle climate change through domestic and international collaborations.
To that end, he revealed the Sarawak Government’s success in securing a grant from the Ministry of Economy and Finance South Korea that would enable the State to embark on a “groundbreaking” research to develop its own hydrogen roadmap.
“The Sarawak Hydrogen Roadmap will guide our efforts, covering technological advancements, infrastructure development and regulatory frameworks.
“Through collaboration, we seek economic growth, job creation and environmental stewardship, contributing to global sustainability goals,” he said, citing the State’s partnership with South Korea in terms of innovative strategies for hydrogen production and utilisation as part of efforts to boost its leadership in the hydrogen economy.
Reference:
Home – Asia Pacific Green Hydrogen. (2024, June 20). Asia Pacific Green Hydrogen. https://hydrogenapac.com/
Unit Komunikasi Awam Sarawak. (2024, June 10). 10 JUN 2024 (LIVE) ASIA PACIFIC GREEN HYDROGEN CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION 2024 (APGH 2024) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JB5mAzytiE
