MIRI: The Sarawak government has reaffirmed its commitment to a sustainable energy future, highlighting the crucial role of engineers in achieving national energy transition goals.
This strong endorsement came from Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, during the virtual launch of the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Miri Energy Month 2025 on Tuesday (May 6).
The month-long initiative, themed “Powering the Future”, focuses on energy awareness, innovation, and sustainable development.
Dr Hazland praised IEM for its ongoing dedication to promoting engineering excellence and providing platforms for knowledge sharing.
He noted that the Energy Month is not merely a celebratory event, but a crucial call to action, uniting engineers, industry leaders, and policymakers in addressing the challenges and opportunities within the energy sector.
“Energy is a fundamental pillar of national development,” Dr Hazland stated. “Malaysia’s economic prosperity and societal wellbeing depend on a stable, efficient, and sustainable energy system.”
He stressed the government’s commitment to this vision through the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), aiming for a balanced energy mix that prioritises renewables, efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.
IEM’s Energy Month 2025 directly aligns with these national priorities. The programme features technical seminars covering crucial areas such as ocean energy, hydrogen energy, solar energy, biomass energy, and energy management.
A site visit will further enhance participants’ understanding through real-world application demonstrations.
Dr Hazland also drew attention to the recently implemented Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (EECA), which came into effect on Jan 1, 2025.
“This legislation aims to institutionalise energy conservation across all sectors, particularly among large energy consumers in the commercial and industrial sectors.
“The EECA mandates that large office buildings meet specified Building Energy Intensity (BEI) standards and may require energy audits if they fail to comply.
“This initiative is a key component of Malaysia’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.”
Dr Hazland stressed the pivotal role of the engineering community, including IEM members, in supporting the EECA’s objectives.
Engineers, he explained, are at the forefront of transforming energy practices as designers, implementers, advisors, and educators.
“Events like Energy Month serve as vital platforms to bridge the gap between professional action and national policy.”
The strategic focus on seminars and site visits, Dr Hazland noted, offers a powerful combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application.
“This approach will inspire both established and aspiring professionals to reflect on their contributions to the future of energy.”
He expressed confidence that the initiative will strengthen the collective resolve in promoting sustainable energy practices and nurture the next generation of energy leaders.
Dr Hazland concluded by urging attendees to “actively participate, fostering collaboration and innovation to build a cleaner and more sustainable Malaysia.”
