Nurin Patra & Jacintha Jolene
THE state government’s push to develop renewable energy is seen as a timely move that not only addresses climate change but also strengthens the state’s position as the ‘Battery of ASEAN’.
Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, said the state government’s renewable energy efforts also supports the ASEAN Power Grid initiative in supplying clean energy throughout the region.
“I am proud of Sarawak Government’s significant achievements in the transition to green energy based on natural gas resources.
“Among them, Sarawak Petchem successfully exported its first shipment of methanol to China earlier this year.
“This success continued with the launch of the Green Methanol Project, aimed at sustainably increasing the production capacity of low-carbon fuels,” he said in his opening speech when officiating at the First Meeting of the Fourth Session of the 19th State Legislative Assembly (DUN) at DUN complex in Kuching today.
Wan Junaidi also expressed his satisfaction that Sarawak has begun taking steps on waste management involving energy generation, known as ‘waste-to-energy’.
“I am confident that this initiative will enhance more sustainable waste management practices and generate revenue for Sarawak,” he said.
Hence, in line with rapid technological advancement, Wan Junaidi emphasised the need for more strategic collaboration between higher education institutions and industry players to further strengthen human capital development.
“The rapid evolution of technology demands a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, and responsive to changes in industry needs.
“The establishment of several international schools and state-owned higher education institutions focused on technical and vocational education is well aligned with industry demands,” he said.
He added that the Sarawak Government’s initiative to provide free higher education for Sarawakian students studying in state-owned universities, and higher learning institutions in selected fields starting next year, has brought significant benefits to the people of Sarawak.
“This is crucial to ensure that talent development is holistic and aligned with current industry needs,” he added.
