BELAGA: In Sarawak, the pursuit of affordable, accessible, and reliable energy sources is intricately linked to the state’s progress and aligns with the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Sarawak Energy stands at the forefront, driven by renewable hydropower and thermal resources, playing a pivotal role in advancing growth while upholding social and environmental responsibility.
At the heart of Sarawak Energy’s operations lies the Bakun Hydroelectric Plant (HEP), Malaysia’s largest hydroelectric plant, supplying renewable energy to industries in Samalaju via the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).
This initiative plays a vital role in the state’s industrial and economic advancement, emphasizing sustainable hydropower development in alignment with the principles of the San José Declaration.
The Bakun Hydroelectric Plant operates under a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan (EMP), prioritizing water quality, aquatic ecosystems, and biodiversity conservation to mitigate environmental impact.
Beyond ecological commitments, the plant significantly contributes to host communities’ socio-economic development, enhancing public infrastructure, education, and healthcare, and generating employment opportunities.
Sarawak Energy’s efforts extend to rural electrification, bringing electricity to remote communities and enhancing the quality of life for Sarawakians.
Biodiversity programs supporting eco-tourism and research opportunities further benefit local communities while raising environmental conservation awareness.
Borneo’s first and Malaysia’s second coal-fired power plant, the Sejingkat Power Plant, also plays a critical role in strengthening energy security while supporting environmental conservation.
Operating with strict environmental management measures, including resin regeneration and wastewater treatment, the plant is located near mudflats, a crucial coastal wetland habitat for wildlife within Malaysia’s first East Asian-Australasian Flyway Network Site.
The creation of the CHITOSE Carbon Capture Central (C4) Sarawak at the Sejingkat Power Plant demonstrates a pioneering partnership utilising flue gas to grow microalgae, thereby aiding in carbon capture and generation of renewable products.
Additionally, Malaysia’s first utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) installed at the plant enhances grid stability and facilitates renewable energy integration, demonstrating Sarawak Energy’s commitment to environmentally responsible power generation.
The recent recognition of the Bakun Hydroelectric Plant and Sejingkat Power Plant at the 11th Premier of Sarawak Environmental Award (PSEA) 2025 underscores Sarawak Energy’s exceptional contributions to environmental management and sustainable innovation.
The awards reaffirm the company’s dedication to sustainable development and inspire continued efforts in advancing renewable energy while prioritizing environmental and social considerations to benefit Sarawak’s communities.
The Premier of Sarawak Environmental Award (PSEA) 2025, themed “Incorporating Environmental Sustainability into Practices”, emphasized the importance of sustainable practices in daily operations and decision-making, highlighting the significance of integrating environmental stewardship into all operations for long-term sustainability and growth.
