BINTULU: Samalaju Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) and Samalaju Pipeline (SPL) are set to begin progressive commercial operations from 2027, marking a milestone in Sarawak’s energy security and industrial development agenda.
Minister for Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said the integrated development of gas and power infrastructure in Samalaju is crucial in supporting the State’s long-term energy system reliability, industrial growth and transition towards a more balanced energy mix.
“The development of integrated power and gas infrastructure in Samalaju is a key enabler in strengthening Sarawak’s energy system. It supports a more reliable and efficient supply chain, while providing the foundation for sustainable industrial growth in the State,” he said in a statement during a site visit to the Samalaju energy development projects today (May 24).
The visit covered key developments including the Samalaju CCPP and the SPL project, and was jointly hosted by Sarawak Energy Berhad and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS).
The Samalaju CCPP is being developed to meet rising electricity demand from the Samalaju Industrial Park and the wider Sarawak grid. It will complement hydropower resources with gas-fired generation to enhance system stability, flexibility and energy security.
Once completed, the plant will feature three Combined Cycle Gas Turbine blocks with a total capacity of about 1,500MW.
Phase 1, consisting of two 500MW blocks, is currently under construction, while Phase 2 is at the tendering stage.
The project is expected to begin progressive commercial operations from 2027, with full operations targeted by 2029.
The Samalaju Pipeline, meanwhile, is designed to transport up to 300 million standard cubic feet per day of natural gas from Kidurong to the Samalaju Industrial Park, supporting wider gas supply infrastructure linked to Bintulu’s energy facilities.
The offshore section of the pipeline was completed in October 2025, marking the successful installation of key components connecting Kidurong and Samalaju.
Julaihi said the coordinated development of these projects is essential in strengthening Sarawak’s energy ecosystem.
“I commend the continued efforts by Sarawak Energy and PETROS in advancing local capability development and ensuring meaningful participation of Sarawakians in these strategic projects,” he added.
The delegation was also briefed on project progress, key milestones and ongoing site activities during the visit, which concluded with a review of future priorities and implementation plans.
MUT emphasised that continued collaboration among stakeholders is vital to ensure the safe, efficient and timely delivery of Sarawak’s strategic energy infrastructure.
