9 ‘perahu tambang' boats gain EV system power up
KUCHING (Aug 19): Nine existing 'perahu tambang', or river taxis, have been retrofitted with electric vehicle (EV) systems through the E-Penambang project.
The initiative aims to transform the iconic 'perahu tambang' into electric-powered boats while preserving their traditional design and heritage value at the Sarawak River.
A solar-powered charging station at the pontoon jetty of Kampung Sungai Bintangor here has also been set up, said the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) in a Facebook post.
It said each upgraded boat is fitted with a 3kW electric propulsion system powered by a 3kWh lithium battery, enabling quiet operation, zero carbon emissions and more than 80 per cent reduction in operating costs compared to petrol engines.
The project, which is spearheaded by DBKU in collaboration with Sarawak Energy Berhad, Centre of Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), began in April this year and is scheduled for completion by June 2026.
Dr Abdul Rahman (third left) and Hilmy (second left) being briefed on the solar-powered charging station for the electric 'perahu tambang'. — Photo via Facebook/DBKU
Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Project Coordination for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the E-Penambang project reflected Sarawak's commitment to driving its green economy agenda.
'This project not only helps operators save on operating costs, but also addresses noise and smoke pollution while enhancing safety and comfort for passengers,' he told reporters when met after officiating the launch of the electric 'perahu tambang' here last night.
Also present were Kuching North Datuk Bandar Datuk Hilmy Othman and DBKU director Ramzi Abdillah.
Dr Abdul Rahman said DBKU is also currently developing 12 new prototypes which will be made using fibreglass and designed with wider decks to improve stability.
The upgraded 'perahu tambang' which will be powered by 3kWh lithium battery. — Photo via Facebook/DBKU
He also said that the project's second phase, which is expected to be completed by October this year, will see a total of 21 electric 'perahu tambang' operating on the Sarawak River.
'This will further strengthen Kuching's identity as a sustainable and green tourism destination,' he added.
The concept of E-Penambang was first introduced in May 2023 with the development of a full prototype by Sarawak Energy, followed by the implementation of the first proof of concept (POC) electric 'perahu tambang' at Kuching Waterfront in October that year.
Among the project's key milestones is the construction of Sarawak's first floating solar charging station, which will utilise a 19.84kWp bifacial solar PV system under the Net Energy Metering (NEM) scheme.
The station, equipped with 10 charging points, also has the potential to be integrated with other renewable energy technologies such as battery storage and hydrogen.
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