KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will open a two-day Sustainability and Renewable Energy Forum (SAREF 4.0) here on Wednesday (Sept 3).
To be held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) it carries the theme “Partnerships for Our Goals – Sustainable Growth and Prosperity for the Region.”
The forum aims to highlight cross-border power connectivity and Southeast Asia’s clean energy transition, while advancing cooperation to boost energy security, resilience and inclusive growth.
Conference producer Elaine Tan Chiaw Hoon said Sarawak has always been at the forefront of providing renewable hydropower to the region.
“SAREF serves as a platform to advocate, share ideas, and bring stakeholders together at the business and utility levels to develop an actionable plan for achieving a just energy transition through renewable resources and cross-border interconnection.
“Through renewable energy, we hope to share that connection with our partners and neighbouring countries, which is why we bring everyone together to create solutions, frameworks, and a roadmap for the way forward,” she said.
Meanwhile, Shanghai Electric Power Transmission & Distribution (M) Sdn Bhd director Zhang Xiao Hui said the company, which has operated in Sarawak and Malaysia for over 11 years, is honoured to participate in SAREF 4.0.
“We have followed SAREF closely from the start, and we remain committed to supporting and promoting Shanghai Electric in Sarawak and beyond.
“We have been encouraged and inspired by Sarawak’s master plan and Sarawak Energy’s vision, particularly in positioning Sarawak as an energy hub for ASEAN. We deeply admire Sarawak’s ambition to become the energy hub of ASEAN,” he said.
He added that through SAREF, Shanghai Electric is taking the opportunity to showcase its capabilities, share proposals, and present solutions to its long-term partner, Sarawak Energy, as well as international partners.
Local entrepreneurs also liken SAREF as a platform to build networks and expand opportunities.
Batik Linut Sdn Bhd gallery and marketing manager Haironi Benjamin, who participated in SAREF 2.0, said the initiative has helped businesses like his gain wider exposure.
“As an entrepreneur, my hope is that SAREF will continue in the years ahead.
“They not only provide opportunities and platforms for us to showcase our products at various events, but also support us by purchasing from entrepreneurs for their programmes.
“Through SAREF, we are able to meet, build networks, exchange ideas, and share experiences. This helps us grow our circle of friends and connections, even with entrepreneurs from outside our immediate area,” she said.
With production based in Mukah and a gallery in Kuching, she added that events like this also open doors to connect with entrepreneurs from places such as Murum and Baleh.
“We get to see their products too, and in the future, if we need something, we already have the contacts. Likewise, if they need our products, they can easily reach us. That’s how our business circle expands.
“We are truly grateful to Sarawak Energy for providing this valuable platform for entrepreneurs,” she said.
This year’s programme will feature high-level dialogues on cross-border interconnections, inclusive growth and sustainable development, alongside exhibitions of renewable energy technologies and innovations.
A youth pavilion will host cultural workshops, interactive talks, panel discussions and a fireside conversation with Malaysia’s two-time Olympic medallist Datuk Pandelela Rinong.
The 5th ASEAN Energy Youth Awards will also be held, showcasing youth innovation in the energy transition, while a Community Market will highlight local products and creativity.
In addition, a side event will commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Plant, Sarawak’s first hydroelectric facility.
