Sarawak Impact: How does Sarawak drive sustainable development?
Datuk Dr Hazland: To navigate Sarawak’s sustainable future, the State government has crafted the Post Covid Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) – a long-term and comprehensive strategy spanning thirteen sectors to address the worldwide economic disruption resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, and to make Sarawak a developed state by 2030.
To work towards that aspiration, the Premier of Sarawak started all these renewable energy initiatives under his visionary leadership, setting the direction for our sustainable journey.
Right now, our key focus is on mitigating climate change, creating new revenues, and wisely investing in social inclusivity, particularly tertiary education.
Sarawak Impact: What unique advantages does Sarawak offer for renewable energy?
Datuk Dr Hazland: Sarawak has abundant hydroelectric power, generating 5,700 megawatts. Plans include floating solar panels, offshore wind projects, and a target of 8,000 megawatts by 2030. Hydropower has led to opportunities in the hydrogen industry.
Synergizing with hydropower, Sarawak aims to be a major hydrogen producer, facilitating advancements in hydrogen-powered vehicles and buses. Sarawak sees hydrogen as a key element for future energy needs. Two hydrogen plants are under construction, with plans to attract more companies. Hydrogen powered vehicles, buses, and sustainable aviation fuel projects are underway.
Sarawak Impact: Why is Sarawak pursuing the carbon market?
Datuk Dr Hazland: Sarawak has vast forests (62% of landmass) that have the potential to store one billion tonnes of carbon: carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) present revenue opportunities.
Sarawak is among the only three stable locations worldwide for ccus globally, so the Premier wanted to use that advantage to leapfrog the state’s economic development while contributing towards net zero emission targets to combat climate change issues.
Sarawak Impact: What laws and regulations support Sarawak’s environmental initiatives?
Datuk Dr Hazland: Sarawak enacted the Forests (Forest Carbon Activity) Rules 2022 and the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emission) Bill 2023.
The state aims to lead in compliance with carbon market regulations, issuing carbon storage and trading licenses.
Sarawak Impact: How does Sarawak plan to utilise its carbon storage potential?
Datuk Dr Hazland: Sarawak has vast potential for carbon storage, mainly from depleted oil wells. Laws and regulations are in place to ensure compliance, with licenses issued for carbon storage.
Sarawak aims to earn revenue through systematic carbon trading activities.
