DEBAK: Sarawak is set to fully end diesel use for electricity generation by July when Limbang Division is connected to the state grid, marking a major shift towards cleaner energy sources.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Lawas had already been connected to the state grid in December last year, while Limbang is expected to follow within three months.
“This means Sarawak will no longer use diesel. Goodbye to diesel,” he said at the ‘Majlis Pemimpin Bersama Rakyat’ programme at the DUN Saribas level here today.
He said the move represents a significant step in Sarawak’s transition towards sustainable energy while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
According to him, the transition was also crucial in cushioning the impact of rising diesel prices on the state’s economy, particularly in sectors still dependent on the fuel such as construction transport.
“Otherwise, we would now be facing a very difficult economic situation. Today, those affected by diesel price increases include lorries and vehicles used in the construction sector,” he said.
Abang Johari added that the state had begun reducing reliance on diesel several years ago, including replacing diesel-powered generators in longhouses in the Baram area with solar systems under the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES).
“Today, longhouse residents in those areas are not affected by diesel issues. Their electricity supply is available 24 hours from solar systems,” he said.
He noted that the decision to shift towards solar energy had proven timely as diesel prices had risen significantly and supply issues such as smuggling and shortages persisted.
He further said Sarawak’s electricity supply model, which relies on hydropower, solar energy, biomass and gas turbines instead of oil, had attracted attention from Peninsular Malaysia.
“That is why they are asking and even feel envious of how we generate electricity. Electricity in Sarawak does not depend on oil,” he said.
At the same time, he said the construction of bridges across the state had also helped reduce dependence on diesel-powered ferry transport, particularly in areas such as Saribas, Sri Aman, Betong, Krian, Saratok and Beladin.
“God-willing, next month we will begin using the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, which spans the longest river in Malaysia. It cost RM900 million and was built with our own effort and funds,” he added.
