BINTULU: Sarawak is set to strengthen its aluminium industry through a new partnership between the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) and PMB Aluminium Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad.
The agreement was signed at a hotel here today (Dec 6) by Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad Group chief executive officer Tan Sri Datuk Paul Koon Poh Keong and BDA general manager Datuk Muhamad Yakup Kari, in the presence of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The collaboration aims to expand downstream activities in the aluminium sector.
Abang Johari described the agreement as a significant milestone in Sarawak’s economic development, particularly in manufacturing sectors that leverage the state’s abundant natural resources.
“Today’s partnership is a prime example of how strategic investment, technological capability, and sustainable development can converge to create new value for Sarawak and its people,” he said.
Under the agreement, a state-of-the-art Fabrication Extrusion Production Line will be established in Samalaju to serve the global solar photovoltaic industry.
The facility will produce high-precision aluminium frames and components for solar modules, utilising advanced automation, robotics, and digital quality systems, while integrating seamlessly with Samalaju’s industrial ecosystem.
Abang Johari noted the strategic importance of the project amid the global shift toward clean energy.
“Solar energy deployment is expanding worldwide, and this facility positions Sarawak as a vital contributor in the global solar value chain,” he said.
He added that the project’s future success will depend on adopting advanced technologies, including AI-driven manufacturing and emerging solar materials. Innovation in energy storage is also crucial, with Sarawak well positioned through hybrid systems that combine solar and hydro energy for greater reliability.
Abang Johari expressed confidence in the partnership, noting that products from Press Metal and BDA will benefit from Sarawak’s reliable and green energy infrastructure.
“This collaboration reflects Sarawak’s commitment to producing high-value, technology-driven products for regional and global markets, aligning with our Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) to double the state’s economy and create new employment opportunities,” he said.
