THE development of the Baram Renewable Energy Economic Zone in Temala, Long Lama, is expected to position Baram and Telang Usan as one of Sarawak’s key green energy hubs and attract major international investments into the rural interior.
Debating the motion of thanks on the Head of State’s address in the DUN Complex today, Datuk Dennis Ngau (GPS-Telang Usan) said the large-scale integrated solar farm project in Baram would strengthen Sarawak’s clean energy agenda while bringing economic spill over benefits to local communities.
“This project, estimated to provide dispatchable energy equivalent to two Bakun hydroelectric dams, is not only infrastructure but a new energy economy that empowers Sarawak’s rural heartlands.
“The project would feature the country’s first firm solar power plant and demonstrate Sarawak’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of green energy development and future energy solutions,” he said during his debate.
He added that the project is expected to create employment opportunities, improve rural infrastructure, establish training centres, and stimulate economic growth in Long Lama and surrounding areas.
Dennis also welcomed the proposed upgrading of the Long Bedian stand-alone power station into a solar and hydrogen hybrid system, describing it as the best solution for remote longhouses that are difficult to connect to the SESCO grid.
On rural development, he expressed appreciation to the Sarawak Government for taking over active and former logging roads in Telang Usan and Mulu under the Malaysia Road Records Information System (MARRIS) maintenance system.
“These roads have become ‘roads of life’ for the people. The roads are vital for transporting agricultural produce, accessing schools and healthcare services, and connecting rural communities to economic centres,” he said.
Ngau also highlighted Baram’s strong eco-tourism potential, particularly the Three Sisters Waterfall area within the proposed Keluan Hill Nature Park, which is expected to be gazetted in the third quarter of 2026.
“With improved road access, I believe the interior areas of Baram can emerge as an important eco-tourism and cultural tourism destination in Sarawak.
“I want to also call stronger support for Radio Kayan, including additional staffing and resources, to preserve the Kayan language and culture while ensuring rural communities continue receiving important government information,” he added.
Apart from that, Dennis also raised concerns over delays in housing reconstruction assistance for fire victims in several villages, including Long Bangan, Long Loyang and Long San, with some families reportedly waiting more than three years for promised houses.
In addition, he urged the government to expedite the implementation of approved Sarawak Alternative Water Supply (SAWAS) projects in Telang Usan, stressing that access to clean water is a basic necessity for rural communities.
