BY NATASHA JEE & ALLAN JAY
Sarawak River Taxis – Part 2
This is part two of a three-part series exploring the transformation of Sarawak’s iconic river taxis. In this series, we look at how the introduction of electric propulsion systems and solar-powered charging reduces emissions and operating costs, modernising river transport while preserving cultural heritage, and supporting Sarawak’s vision for a sustainable, low-carbon future.
IN just one month, a single electric-powered ‘perahu tambang’ (river taxi) prevents more than 100kg of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere. Multiply that across a fleet over the coming months, and the impact grows into a small but powerful force in the fight against climate change.
This is the promise of the E-Penambang project, which is transforming Kuching’s traditional river transport into a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable system. Petrol engines, once the heartbeat of the boats, are being replaced with electric motors that run silently and produce zero emissions.
The E-Penambang project, a pilot initiative between Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), saw nine existing boats retrofitted with a 3kW electric propulsion system powered by a 3kWh lithium battery.
What began as a pilot has become a milestone in Sarawak’s renewable energy journey — showing that even the simplest modes of transport can play a role in a low-carbon future.
Green milestone for Sarawak
The benefits for boat operators are significant, but the environmental impact is perhaps its most transformative feature.
During the prototype phase, a single electric-powered river taxi saved an estimated 105.99kg of carbon emissions (CO₂) per month – a small yet meaningful contribution to Sarawak’s climate goals.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Coordination of Projects for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the project is deeply aligned with Sarawak’s clean energy agenda, which includes greening the state’s power grid and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
“This initiative fits within the broader framework of the Sarawak government’s aspiration to transition towards a sustainable, low-carbon future,” he told Sarawak Tribune recently.
At the core of this innovation lies the integration of solar power and grid connectivity. The charging station with solar panels feeds surplus energy back into the grid under the Net Energy Metering (NEM) scheme.
In return, the boats draw grid power for recharging, ensuring that energy consumption and generation remain balanced without requiring costly battery storage systems.
“This model demonstrates how renewable energy and mobility solutions can complement each other.
“It positions Sarawak as an example of practical, scalable green innovation in transport infrastructure.”
Phase 1: A quiet revolution on the water
Sarawak Energy’s Research and Development (R&D) division has been at the forefront of this evolution.
Phase 1 of Project Pak Tambang (E-Sampan) introduced fully electric boats powered by rechargeable batteries, replacing noisy petrol engines with silent motors that glide through the water.
Initiated in mid-2023, the project is led by SEB R&D’s Emerging Robotics Innovation unit, in collaboration with local boat operators who had been using this E-Sampan since October last year.
SEB said the initiative aims to support the state’s sustainability agenda by transitioning river transportation and related fleet operations toward cleaner energy solutions.
“This effort is part of our mandate under the Post-COVID Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“In addition, it reflects our corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of the ‘penambang’ community along the Sarawak River,” the state owned electric utility company told Sarawak Tribune.
It added, while introducing technological advancements into the operational model, SEB remains committed to maintaining the historical and cultural significance of this traditional mode of transportation.
“As a renewable energy provider, we believe it is essential that our sustainability efforts are meaningfully translated to ground-level applications, particularly in areas where communities still rely on conventional, carbon-intensive fuels like in water transportation,” it said.
The project also aligns with DBKU’s plans to revitalise Kuching city’s river transportation.
Dr Abdul Rahman stated that Phase 1 costs around RM1.2 million, which covers the construction of a solar-powered charging station at Kampung Sungai Bintangor Pontoon Jetty, and modification and upgrading of 12 existing river taxis, including installation of electric motors and batteries.
Over a 10-month trial period, local operators ferried passengers on these electric boats, demonstrating the viability of clean mobility on the Sarawak River.
The benefits were immediate and compelling with an 80 per cent reduction in operating costs as fuel expenses disappeared; lower carbon emissions and improved air quality; and a smoother, quieter ride for passengers—free from fumes and engine vibrations.
Phase 2: Charging ahead with solar innovation
Building on this success, Phase 2 focuses on exploring charging infrastructure, including solar-powered solutions. A prototype charging station under the NEM Scheme is already in operation at the Kuching Waterfront.
The concept is simple: harness the sun’s energy to charge boat batteries during off-peak hours, then offset any surplus energy against grid consumption. For operators, this means near-zero energy costs and independence from fluctuating fuel prices.
On the SEB’s process of installing electric motor systems on the boats and building solar charging stations, they said its primary role in this initiative was to provide the technological solution for retrofitting conventional petrol-powered engines with electric propulsion systems.
“The process began with a pilot study back in 2023 by the R&D team at SEB, with the intention to assess the operational patterns and load requirements of the boats.
“Engagement started with a pilot boat operator, through installing the essential components including battery systems, electric motors and wiring on the vessel,” it said.
“Following the pilot deployment, both technical and non-technical data to refine the system were collected to ensure optimal sizing and performance.
“This included feedback on passenger comfort and operator acceptance. With these insights, we were able to support the recent initiative led by DBKU to retrofit 12 boats,” it said.
At the same time, SEB also developed a solar-powered charging pontoon, reflecting its commitment to renewable energy.
“While there were initial suggestions to install solar panels directly on the boats, this would have compromised their iconic roof design, which carries cultural significance.
“The pontoon solution offers a safer, grid-connected alternative that mimics electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
“Not only that, we also developed an access-controlled charging port, equipping them with the mechanism that recognises only registered E-penambang units,” it stated.
Dr Abdul Rahman pointed out that Phase 2, involved the installation of one charging station at a cost of around RM350,000.
When renewable energy powers public mobility, it creates a chain reaction—lower costs, reduced emissions, and a cleaner urban environment.
Phase 2 will also see the development of 12 units of new boats entirely built of fibreglass in collaboration between DBKU, Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).
“The new boats are designed to further improve stability and safety, and are expected to be ready by October.
“They will retain the traditional design but are fully constructed from fibreglass, featuring wider bases and larger windows to enhance safety and passenger comfort.”
He said by October, this would see 21 electric-powered river taxis along the Sarawak River.
Integrating heritage and modernity
DBKU has also ensured river transport upgrades fit within city planning. Under its riverfront revitalisation programme, passenger jetties are improved, and e-sampans are standardised for safety and aesthetics.
Dr Abdul Rahman said this project is also intended as a modern and sustainable tourism icon.
Retaining the traditional design while incorporating green technology makes the E-Penambang a symbol of sustainable heritage and a new attraction along the Sarawak River.
The river taxi is seen as more than transport—it is part of the state’s tourism appeal. By modernising the fleet without erasing its traditional charm, it creates an experience that is both authentic and forward-looking.
Future plans include dedicated e-sampan lanes, integration with digital ticketing platforms, and public awareness campaigns to encourage adoption.
Economic and social ripple effect
One of the key benefits of the electric conversion is operational efficiency. Traditional engines required regular refuelling and frequent maintenance, cutting into operators’ earnings. With electric propulsion, expenses drop significantly and offer long-term savings.
“Reduced costs mean operators can earn more, while the boats’ eco-friendly image draws new customers, especially tourists,” Dr Abdul Rahman explained.
The changes also open opportunities for youth engagement – offering a stable income. For the record, younger generations were reluctant to join the trade due to its uncertain income and outdated methods.
Now, with a modernised system and improved profitability, the sector is poised to attract fresh blood, ensuring its continuity as a socio-economic pillar for riverine communities.
On the positive impact on the river habitat, he pointed out that electric engines produce no oil spills, noise, exhaust emissions, or petrol fumes, making them more environmentally friendly and less disruptive to aquatic life.
SEB said the adoption of electric motors in penambang boats offers several tangible benefits.
“Most notably, it significantly reduces noise and air pollution compared to conventional petrol engines. This creates a more pleasant experience for passengers, while allowing for quiet conversations and less carbon footprint while crossing the river,” it said.
From the operator’s perspective, SEB said switching to electric propulsion can result in fuel cost savings, contributing to long-term economic viability as operators can simply charge their penambang from the pontoon.
“Led and funded by DBKU, this initiative drives Kuching’s transformation into a more eco-friendly and sustainable urban destination.
“By providing the necessary budget and leadership, DBKU ensures the city’s environmental goals are advanced while reinforcing Kuching’s reputation as a green capital — an identity that can attract tourism and foreign investment.
“The initiative also benefits from the support and expertise of key partners, including the Sarawak Economic Planning Unit (EPU), CENTEXS, and UTM, highlighting a collaborative approach across government, academia, and technical agencies,” it said.
Preserving tradition, embracing modernity
For generations, the river taxis have been central to Kuching’s identity, but rising fuel costs and declining ridership posed challenges.
E-Penambang changes this: nine boats have been retrofitted with electric motors and battery systems thus far and supported by a solar-powered charging station.
For DBKU, this is more than an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a step toward future-proofing a cultural heritage.
Dr Abdul Rahman said, “This project is not just about modernising transport; it’s about ensuring continuity.
“By reducing costs, attracting younger operators, and improving sustainability, we are giving river taxis a new lease of life.”
Challenges and future plans
Despite its success, the journey was not without hurdles. Technical benchmarking was crucial to identify the right motor and battery systems for local river conditions.
Convincing operators to adopt a technology unfamiliar to them required persistent engagement and training. The team also faced procurement challenges, as local availability of electric propulsion systems was limited at the time.
Yet, these challenges yielded valuable lessons. Dr Abdul Rahman shared that the project has potential for further refinements, such as introducing floating solar technology and integrating Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in future phases.
“Plans also include developing digital ticketing systems to enhance service efficiency and incorporating hydrogen-powered alternatives for greater energy diversification.”
SEB said currently, the use of electric motors in river transport is still limited, leading to higher upfront costs for components such as batteries and propulsion systems.
“Over time, however, wider adoption and advancing technology are expected to drive prices down, making electric propulsion a more cost-effective option in the long run,” it said.
By collaborating with local distributors or technology partners under the open innovation framework, it said procurement costs can be reduced and ensure better accessibility to components such as batteries and electric motors.
“Local partnerships also enhance after-sales support and maintenance capabilities, making the solution more sustainable and cost-effective over time,” it added.
SEB noted that the rapid advancement of the EV sector provides a strong indication of this trend.
“Given the shared principles between EVs and electric boats, we anticipate similar cost reductions in key components, making clean energy solutions more accessible and economically viable in the near future,” it relayed.
Paving the way
As Sarawak charts its path toward becoming a regional clean energy hub, projects like the E-Penambang serve as tangible milestones of progress. They embody the state’s ability to balance heritage with innovation, ensuring that sustainability is not just a policy target but a lived reality for communities.
“By transitioning river taxis from petrol to electric propulsion, we are able to directly reduce net carbon emissions associated with river transport.
Beyond the environmental impact, the initiative also serves as a public awareness effort by demonstrating how electrification can be applied in everyday life.
“It reinforces the broader message that shifting from conventional, carbon-intensive fuels to cleaner alternatives, such as electric vehicles and vessels, is both feasible and beneficial.
“This aligns with Sarawak Energy’s commitment to supporting the state’s low-carbon development agenda through practical, community-level applications,” it concluded.
