KUCHING: Sustainability has become the foundation of future competitiveness, resilience and equity, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He says Sarawak is already a leader in renewable energy, with more than 70 per cent of its electricity generated from clean hydropower, giving the state one of the lowest carbon electricity grids in Southeast Asia.
He stressed the need to accelerate progress to further strengthen Sarawak’s position in the global renewable energy sector.
“According to the International Energy Agency, renewables will make up nearly half of global electricity generation by 2030, a clear signal that we are moving from fossil dependence to clean energy resilience.
“But this transition is not just environmental, it is also economic, social, and strategic. It empowers nations to chart their own energy futures.
“Sarawak is ready to lead. But we know that we must do more, and move faster,” he said.
He said this in a speech read out by Energy and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni when officiating at the opening of Sustainable and Valuable Energy Conference (SAVE) 2025 today (Aug 12).
Abang Johari said Sarawak had always welcomed strategic partnerships that could benefit its people, region and nation, and was open to adopting new ideas, technologies and innovations from global partners.
He said the state looks forward to learning from Korean stakeholders during the event, particularly in hydrogen, smart grids, digital energy systems and clean technology commercialisation.
These, he added, could offer scalable opportunities to strengthen Sarawak’s regional capabilities and resilience.
“We look forward to exploring the innovations our Korean stakeholders will share with us,” he said.
“These include areas that can transform our energy systems and create sustainable economic opportunities.”
“Our focus is on solutions that are practical, scalable and beneficial to our communities,” he added.
