KUCHING: Cow waste is a promising new source of energy, particularly in the production of hydrogen fuel.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that cow waste, which emits methane gas, can be harnessed through clean technology to generate value, aligning with the principles of a circular economy.
He said that this innovative approach fits well with Sarawak’s policy of reducing resource waste by recycling agricultural and livestock by-products into useful inputs for the state’s economy.
“If we have a lot of cattle, you know what they produce?
“Waste. And that actually contains a lot of hydrogen due to the methane it releases. From methane, we can extract hydrogen and convert it into energy.
“This supports the concept of sustainable development, where organic waste is transformed into high-value products through clean technologies.
“This is what we call the circular economy, reusing waste to protect the environment while at the same time generating economic opportunities,” he said during the launch of the International Day of Forests 2025 celebration, themed ‘Forests and Foods’, held here today.
He added that the Sarawak Government has allocated RM30 million through the Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA) to implement a pilot project in Lubok Antu, aiming at converting oil palm waste into biomass and biofuel.
“For years, we’ve been cultivating oil palm and selling its oil, but the waste wasn’t properly managed. This project breaks down palm waste to produce biomass and biofuel.
“That biomass can be turned into animal feed, and early trials on cattle and goats have shown encouraging results – the animals are healthier and gain weight more effectively.
“Beyond animal feed, the biofuel produced from palm waste can also be refined into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for aircraft use,” he said.
Abang Johari also recalled his remarks at the ASEAN Economic Leaders’ Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where he shared a simple but powerful quote: “Don’t waste the waste – monetise the waste.”
He said this phrase captured the essence of Sarawak’s green growth strategy, and has since been adopted as a branding theme, demonstrating growing international interest in Sarawak’s approach to environmental sustainability.
