BY NATASHA JEE & ALEXANDRA LORNA
KUCHING: The Sarawak government will establish a dedicated faculty for renewable energy studies at i-CATS University College in an effort to produce more local talents and expertise in the energy sector.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the faculty could collaborate with companies such as Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) in energy-related fields.
“I agree with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof’s suggestion on renewable energy education.
“Therefore, we will establish a faculty at i-CATS University College, dedicated to energy-related studies,” he said during the PBB Southern Zone Branch Delegates Meeting at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) yesterday (Jan 19).
Abang Johari, who is also the Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, explained that i-CATS University College was chosen because it is a state-owned university and students eligible to enter the faculty will be provided with free education.
“This initiative will produce local scientists and experts in various energy fields, including gas and emerging technologies like synthetic gas,” he said.
He added that Sarawak has the potential to lead in renewable energy innovation, especially with the availability of the state’s abundant resources.
“This is part of the state’s broader strategy to maximise the value of its God-given resources, with PBB and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) serving as platforms to drive development and innovation,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Fadillah proposed to Abang Johari the establishment of a dedicated institution for renewable energy in Sarawak.
He said the initiative would allow renewable energy to become a part of the people’s social culture.
