(Kuching, 10th) Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, stated that Sarawak welcomes partnerships and investments in clean energy, digital technology, and sustainable industries to strengthen its role as a green innovation hub.
He mentioned in a public speech at the Yusof Ishak Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore today that Sarawak is promoting sustainable development through innovation, investment, and strategic incentives in the fields of renewable energy, hydrogen energy, biotechnology, carbon capture, and eco-tourism.
"The 'Sarawak Sustainable Development Blueprint' launched in October last year accelerated investments and technological innovation, strengthening leadership in green hydrogen energy, carbon capture, and smart cities. Meanwhile, it has also promoted technological cooperation in AI-driven resource management, blockchain-backed carbon markets, and smart city solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability."
Abang Johari stated that a skilled workforce drives this vision.
He emphasized that the state is nurturing talent for clean energy and digital transformation through scholarships, training, and university collaborations.
He believes that by strengthening regional cooperation in green industries, energy security, and climate solutions, Sarawak is shaping a sustainable and competitive economy.
He highlighted that the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) is Southeast Asia's first hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit system, which uses AI to optimize routes, monitor operations, and enhance maintenance for cleaner and more efficient travel.
He noted that the state's "Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030" advocates AI, IoT, and big data to improve energy usage, waste management, and urban planning, enhancing economic growth and connectivity.
"As we modernize our cities, we must also protect our natural environment to ensure long-term sustainability."
He went on to explain that Sarawak's forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, with 62% of the state's land covered by forests.
He added that expanding this capability remains a priority, alongside implementing strict conservation policies and eliminating unsustainable logging.
The Chief Minister also stated that global partnerships have propelled Sarawak's sustainable development, accelerating clean energy innovation, technology transfer, and investments.
He explained that through cooperation with governments and industry, Sarawak has expanded its hydrogen energy, renewable energy, and carbon markets while strengthening regional energy security.
"In addition to collaborations with Japan, Korea, China, and the UAE, we continue to work with global stakeholders to develop low-carbon industries, sustainable infrastructure, and promote innovation in clean energy solutions. To further advance climate action, we are establishing the Sarawak Climate Change Center as a regional hub for research, policy-making, and cooperation."
He pointed out that it will focus on adaptation, mitigation, carbon management, disaster risk assessment, and renewable energy, serving as a platform for climate modeling, capacity building, and global knowledge exchange.