KUCHING: Bakun Dam, operated by Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB), has been awarded the Best Dam Operator title at the International Conference on Dam Safety Management and Engineering (ICDSME) 2025.
The award was presented by Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, in recognition of SEB’s commitment to ensuring safe, efficient and reliable dam operations.
Dr Hazland said hosting the international conference in Sarawak for the first time strengthens the state’s role in green energy development and dam safety leadership in Southeast Asia.
““This conference is not merely a technical platform, but also serves as a key pillar for public confidence and policy stability,” he added.
“The operation of large hydronic structures in tropical regions with seismic risks and increasingly unpredictable climate change demands the highest levels of sensitivity and safety control.”
Dr Hazland said this in his speech during the ICDSME 2025 at Imperial Hotel here on Wednesday.
He also stressed that the role of professional organisations such as the Malaysian National Committee on Large Dams (MYCOLD) is crucial in strengthening industry expertise and capability through continuous training, specialised programmes, and technical knowledge sharing among industry practitioners.
Apart from Bakun Dam, the Teluk Bahang Dam, managed by Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang Sdn Bhd, received the Best Dam Maintenance Award, while Chenderoh Dam, under TNB Power Generation Sdn Bhd, earned the Community Dam Safety Award.
“Congratulations to all the outstanding award recipients. Your dedication and commitment ensure that the development and safety of dams continue to be preserved for the benefit of future generations,” Dr Hazland added.
The conference gathered over 300 local and international participants, including dam engineering experts, policymakers and academics, to discuss best practices, emerging technology and dam safety challenges in the transition toward sustainable energy.
