OXFORD, United Kingdom: Sarawak has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies (OIES) to bolster its energy transition plans and position the state as a regional leader in clean energy innovation.
Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, said the collaboration would support Sarawak’s ambition to become a low-carbon economy by leveraging OIES’ global expertise in sustainable energy research and policy.
“Collaboration with the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies will facilitate Sarawak’s journey towards a sustainable, low-carbon future,” he said during the engagement session here.
According to Dr Hazland, the partnership is expected to advance Sarawak’s ongoing efforts in hydropower, solar energy and green hydrogen production.
He noted that the state’s comprehensive energy transition strategy is designed to spur economic growth, promote social inclusivity, and ensure environmental protection.
Meanwhile, OIES, which runs a carbon management programme focusing on nature-based solutions, noted that Sarawak’s extensive forest coverage, accounting for 62 percent of its landmass, and its estimated carbon stock of about one billion tonnes, make it a strategic partner.
“With Sarawak already active in carbon trading and regulation development, the institute expressed interest in working together on research and customised fellowships in areas such as carbon trading mechanisms, forest carbon management, and policy frameworks,” it said.
In light of this, the institute also extended invitations to Sarawak stakeholders to participate in upcoming events, including Gas Day and Hydrogen Day.
“These programmes will focus on hydrogen production, carbon management and policy development, potentially accelerating Sarawak’s global recognition in sustainable energy,” it added.
In its statement, the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability said that Sarawak and OIES acknowledged the need for strong regulatory and policy frameworks to support the energy transition.
“Through joint research, capacity building and knowledge exchange, the partnership aims to reinforce Sarawak’s role in shaping regional and international sustainable energy policies,” it said.
