KUCHING: Sarawak and the United Kingdom (UK) are poised to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy, digital transformation and sustainable development as both sides explore opportunities for deeper economic and trade partnerships.
The collaboration was highlighted during a recent engagement involving a UK delegation and Sarawak stakeholders, focusing on green economy initiatives, energy transition and technological innovation.
The Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Sarawak said through a press statement today (June 18) that the discussions reflected growing international interest in Sarawak’s sustainability agenda and clean energy ambitions.
In his welcome address, Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, outlined the state’s strategic direction in renewable energy development and environmental sustainability.
He also briefed delegates on Sarawak’s policies relating to decarbonisation, green hydrogen development, the Low Carbon Hub initiative, and the Sarawak TIC programme.
According to the ministry, these initiatives demonstrate Sarawak’s commitment to keeping pace with global efforts aimed at addressing climate change challenges and strengthening long-term energy security.
“As an electro-petrostate, Sarawak is well positioned to contribute to global efforts in mitigating climate change and enhancing energy security through ongoing initiatives in energy transition, decarbonisation and renewable energy development,” Dr Hazland said.
The ministry further noted that Sarawak has already exported electricity to Kalimantan and Sabah as part of its regional energy integration efforts.
In the near future, power transmission is expected to be extended to Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia through a subsea high-voltage cable network.
Several memoranda of understanding have also been signed between state-owned enterprises, private sector players and UK partners in advanced manufacturing, smart cities and education.
The UK delegation was led by the UK Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to ASEAN, Naz Shah, accompanied by Council Board Member and Unitas Atlantic Council’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Muddassar Ahmed; and Unitas Director, Dr Hassan Abdein.
Also present was Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre’s CEO, Professor Dr Patrick Then, together with members of his management team.
Subsequently, Shah shared the UK’s perspective on strengthening economic and trade relations with Sarawak, highlighting investment opportunities in the green economy, digital transformation and academic partnerships.
He also reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Sarawak and exploring mutually beneficial areas of collaboration in the years ahead.
