KOTA KINABALU: The Sarawak government and the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to streamline the regulation of electrical and gas-related equipment across Sarawak and Sabah.
This strategic partnership is expected to pave the way for greater collaboration between the two states in energy regulation, strengthening consumer protection, and fostering economic growth in the region.
The MoU, signed at the Sabah International Convention Centre here Monday, underscores a shared commitment to mutual recognition of safety labels, energy efficiency standards, and regulatory compliance mechanisms for electrical appliances, gas piping, gas appliances, and fittings within both territories.
The agreement is aimed at eliminating redundant verification processes, ensuring that equipment certified by either party can be marketed, displayed, and sold in both Sarawak and Sabah without requiring re-certification.
This is expected to facilitate smoother trade, enhance consumer safety, and promote regulatory cohesion between the two states.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Sabah Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, and Sarawak’s Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.
Signing on behalf of Sarawak was Datuk Jafri Lias, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, while ECoS was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ir. Abdul Nasser Abdul Wahid.
Previously, Sarawak had entered into similar arrangements with the Energy Commission prior to Sabah’s establishment of ECoS.
With ECoS now serving as the dedicated energy regulator for Sabah, this MoU represents a renewed and formalised partnership.
One of the key components of the agreement includes mutual recognition of safety labels certified by SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd, ensuring standardisation in equipment testing and safety across both states.
Additionally, while Sarawak does not issue energy efficiency labels, it will recognise those issued by ECoS and the Energy Commission, subject to equivalent performance standards.
The ceremony also featured several highlights, including the presentation of a compliance registration certificate to SIRIM QAS International and the exchange of MoU documents for a TVET Adoption Programme aimed at enhancing competencies in the electrical and gas sectors.
Further showcasing Sabah and Sarawak’s commitment to social responsibility, Hajiji presented Hari Raya contributions to orphans from Al-Sakinah.