KUCHING: Bintulu could play a role in producing advanced energy cells as Sarawak prepares for emerging technologies that use sunlight to generate electricity.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said research was currently being carried out on technologies capable of generating electricity using sunlight, including research linked to future energy generation in space.
He said Sarawak needed to prepare its talent and workforce to participate in the development of such technologies.
“That is why we need to prepare our talent for that technology. God-willing, Sarawak will produce the cells that split light to generate energy, and production will be in Bintulu,” he said during the opening of the 12th Sarawak Career and Training (SCaT) Fair 2026 at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre today (June 6).
According to him, researchers are exploring ways to generate electricity by using sunlight to produce electrons, which can then be harnessed as energy.
Abang Johari said the initiative would involve collaboration with South Korea and technologies involving semiconductor wafers used in the process of converting light into electricity.
He said the development reflected Sarawak’s efforts to position itself in emerging technology sectors while preparing for future energy demands.
“We know that sunlight can be used in this technology. There is a wafer involved in the process and through it electricity can be generated,” he said.
The Premier added that advances in such technologies could help reduce dependence on oil for electricity generation in the future.
He said preparing a skilled workforce would be crucial if Sarawak was to participate in the development and production of next-generation energy technologies.
