For most of our lives, water has been something we barely think about — a quiet, constant presence that flows from the tap, fills our rivers, and keeps daily life running smoothly. It is so familiar that we seldom pause to consider its value.
But the world is changing. And in an era shaped by climate uncertainty, rising populations, and fast-paced technological transformation, water is no longer just a basic necessity. It is steadily becoming one of the most strategic resources of our time.
This week, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg captured this reality with clarity and urgency in his keynote address at the International Water Association (IWA) Water and Development Congress & Exhibition (WDEC) 2025 in Bangkok.
He described water not merely as a public service, but as a “new commodity” — the very foundation of Sarawak’s economic transition, clean energy ambitions, and climate resilience.
It is a bold reframing of something we often take for granted. But it is also timely — perhaps overdue.
Water as the Backbone of Sarawak’s Next-Generation Economy
When we talk about economic transformation, we tend to think of the visible things: new highways, modern bridges, factories, data centres, and gleaming high-tech parks. Rarely do we consider the invisible force that allows all of these to exist — water.
Water is, quite literally, the lifeblood of modern technology. As the global economy leans deeper into artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure, the demand for clean and dependable water is set to surge.
Semiconductor fabrication alone consumes millions of litres of ultrapure water each day for cooling and cleaning.
Without water, the world’s digital backbone — the very technology powering our phones, computers, servers, and electric vehicles — would grind to a halt.
This reality places water at the centre of industrial competitiveness.
For Sarawak, which is positioning itself as a player in high-tech manufacturing and green energy, water security becomes both an economic safeguard and a strategic advantage.
And Sarawak, unlike many parts of the world, is blessed with abundance.
A State Rich in Water — and Opportunity
Sarawak is home to some of Malaysia’s most extensive and self-contained river systems. Our major rivers begin and end within our borders — a geographical advantage that grants a rare form of natural economic autonomy.
But having water is one thing. Harnessing its potential is another.
As the Premier noted, countries with surplus water are beginning to explore new models of water trade — whether through cross-border pipelines, industrial water-sharing agreements, or strategic partnerships.
It may seem futuristic, but so did renewable energy exports once upon a time. Today, Sarawak exports electricity across borders; tomorrow, water could theoretically follow.
Such ideas challenge traditional assumptions. Yet they also signal enormous opportunity — if managed with foresight, sustainability, and strong governance.
Water and the Green Energy Pivot
One of the Premier’s most important insights was the link between water and Sarawak’s hydrogen future.
Hydrogen, particularly green hydrogen — produced using renewable electricity and water — is increasingly seen as a global game-changer. It promises clean energy for heavy transport, industrial processes, and energy storage. But hydrogen production relies on two key inputs in enormous quantities:
• Renewable power
• Water
Sarawak already has the renewable energy advantage through its hydropower-driven grid.
Now, water itself is becoming part of the state’s competitive edge. If stewarded wisely, water could help Sarawak:
• Lead Southeast Asia in green hydrogen production
• Attract global investors seeking low-carbon industrial hubs
• Strengthen energy security
• Become a regional exporter of clean, sustainable energy
This is not just about going green. It is about creating jobs, securing new industries, and future-proofing our economy.
Balancing Growth With Sustainability
But even abundance has limits. As industries expand and more households come online, competition for water will inevitably rise.
Hydrogen plants, factories, agriculture, tourism, and communities will all be drawing from the same source.
This is why the Premier emphasised the need for innovation, research, and global collaboration — especially with organisations like the International Water Association.
Sarawak cannot afford to stretch its water systems beyond their capacity. The future depends not only on how much water we have, but how wisely we manage it.
Sustainability is no longer an environmental slogan. It is an economic necessity.
A Resource We Thought We Understood — Until Now
Water tends to escape public attention until something goes wrong: a dry tap, a disrupted supply, or a polluted river. Only then do we realise how fragile the system truly is.
But the Premier’s remarks in Bangkok urge Sarawakians to rethink the role of water altogether. It is no longer just part of the background.
It is a strategic asset — an economic engine, a climate stabiliser, and a lifeline for the industries of tomorrow.
The world’s most complex challenges — climate change, food security, energy transition, and technological development — all converge on one essential resource: water.
If Sarawak positions itself wisely, water could become one of its greatest strengths in the decades ahead.
The Takeaway
As someone who observes policy shifts and writes about Sarawak’s long-term direction, I see the Premier’s message as a defining moment.
It invites us to widen our perspective — to understand that transformation is not just about grand infrastructure or high-tech industries. It begins with something far more fundamental and understated.
Water — a resource we have always depended on, yet perhaps never fully understood as a strategic commodity. How Sarawak values, manages, and innovates around water will determine not only our economic success, but also our resilience as a community facing an uncertain future.
And that, truly, is something worth pondering.
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DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at drnagrace@gmail.com.
