TOKYO: Sarawak is seeking opportunities to collaborate with Japan on technology transfer and exchange in the e-methanol industry.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, highlighted that e-methanol plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions within energy-intensive sectors.
He emphasised that e-methanol would be a key fuel in efforts to lower carbon emissions.
“Here in Japan, the situation is complex because they aim to produce synthetic gas. In Sarawak, we have natural gas, so we do not face this challenge as we already possess the basic raw material. What we need is the technology to utilise gas as a raw material to produce new products.
“So, our challenge is not the same as Japan’s. However, we can supply hydrogen to Japan, which means Japan could invest in Sarawak and establish factories here. Some processes will no longer be needed, reducing production costs for Sarawak,” he said.
He shared this during an interview with UKAS and TVS after visiting the Tokyo Gas Yokohama Techno Station on Wednesday.
Earlier, Abang Johari was welcomed by Tokyo Gas vice president Kentaro Kimoto and briefed on the production of hydrogen and synthetic e-methanol fuels before touring the facility.
Additionally, Abang Johari highlighted that the state is fortunate to be endowed with abundant natural resources, which can serve as alternative energy solutions for developed countries like Japan.
“What I observe now is that Sarawak has an advantage. We do not have synthetic gas, but we possess natural gas found in our land—methane.
“We are now using methane as a resource to combine with carbon dioxide, which will then become raw material for gas-based products,” he said.
Accompanying the Premier on the visit were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.
