KUCHING: Sarawak is rapidly emerging as a regional powerhouse for green industries, advanced manufacturing and clean energy investments, with global recognition for Bintulu marking a major milestone in the state’s economic transformation.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Bintulu’s recognition by the World Economic Forum as one of only 36 Transitioning Industrial Clusters (TICs) worldwide places Sarawak at the forefront of the global shift towards low-carbon industrial development.
“The district is the only cluster from Malaysia to be included in the prestigious global network. We are attracting a new wave of green investments, advanced manufacturing industries, and low-carbon technologies,” he said in his Gawai Dayak message today (May 31).
The Bintulu Transitioning Industrial Cluster is scheduled for official launch on June 11, a move expected to further strengthen Sarawak’s standing as a preferred destination for sustainable industries and future-ready investments.
Abang Johari said the state’s long-term growth strategy is underpinned by the 10-year Sarawak Gas Roadmap, which aims to maximise the value of Sarawak’s natural gas resources through the development of four strategic growth centres in Miri, Samalaju, Bintulu and Kuching.
The strategy is already yielding results, with Sarawak exporting more than one million metric tonnes of methanol to markets across the Asia-Pacific region since December 2024.
“Rather than exporting raw resources alone, we are ensuring that Sarawak’s gas wealth generates industrial growth, high-value employment, and technology transfer,” he said.
To support growing industrial demand, the 500-megawatt Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant in Miri has already reached about 45 per cent completion as of April this year, and it remains on schedule for completion by the end of 2027.
“This facility will serve as the primary energy hub for northern Sarawak and will play a critical role in supporting our growing industrial and economic activities,” he said.
