- Sarawak aims to lead ASEAN in renewable energy by producing hydrogen, using AI, and aligning with ESG goals.
- Premier Abang Johari drives a strategy focused on prosperity, inclusivity, sustainability, and human capital development.
Sarawak is positioning itself as the leading renewable energy hub in the ASEAN region with a bold strategy focused on economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg declared that Sarawak has begun transitioning to a green economy, driven by technological innovation, renewable resources, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability.
Speaking at the Rimbunan Hijau Group of Companies’ 50th anniversary celebration on Tuesday night, May 13, he explained that the state’s development rests on three core pillars. “I am proud to say that Sarawakians have embraced this direction,” he added.
Tan Sri Abang Johari outlined how the state has evolved from a digital economy to one centred on green energy, particularly renewable sources like hydrogen, while integrating artificial intelligence and digitalisation.
“After launching our digital economy, we shifted to real green energy. Now we focus on renewable energy, and AI and digitalisation boost this new era of economic growth,” he said.
Furthermore, he emphasised that Sarawak’s rich natural resources give it a competitive edge in renewable energy production. “We enjoy abundant water and gas resources that allow us to extract hydrogen, the cleanest form of energy, to replace fossil fuels. Hydrogen from water and methane offers us a viable alternative fuel to power our economy,” he explained.
Tan Sri Abang Johari also outlined his vision to lead the ASEAN region with the “ASEAN Green” initiative. “We must align our economy with ESG principles. While we possess the necessary resources, developing our human capital remains crucial,” he said.
Meanwhile, reflecting on a recent meeting with international academics from the London School of Economics, he noted their recognition of Sarawak’s potential. “The professors at LSE remarked that we are very fortunate here in Borneo and Sarawak because we hold what is now termed ‘natural capital’: pristine forests that serve as carbon sinks, vast potential for hydrogen, and a workforce ready to be trained.”
He concluded that natural and human capital, spurred by innovation and entrepreneurship, will propel Sarawak to thrive in the green economy. “With successful initiatives like Rimbunan Hijau and a clear focus on green development, I am confident that Sarawak will become ‘hijau, hijau, hijau’ (green) for the world economy,” he asserted.