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The Star
8 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Sarawak on track to develop energy hubs
KUCHING: Sarawak is developing four strategic energy hubs which are projected to unlock investment opportunities worth between RM350bil and RM430bil, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg (pic). He said these are the renewable energy hub, natural gas hub, hydrogen hub and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) hub. 'Each of these hubs plays a complementary role, working together towards a common and critical objective, ensuring energy security for Sarawak, today and for generations to come. 'Additionally, the Sarawak government will introduce a suite of comprehensive and forward-looking policies, including Sarawak Hydrogen Economy Roadmap, Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint, Sarawak Energy Transition Policy and Sarawak Energy Efficiency Roadmap,' added Abang Johari in the Sarawak state assembly. He expects the energy hubs to create some 44,000 new high-value jobs for Sarawakians, adding that these jobs will be generated by new industries, which can boost opportunities for local small and medium enterprises, attract domestic and foreign direct investments and strengthen Sarawak's regional and global competitiveness. Saying that Sarawak's journey towards becoming a global leader in green energy is gaining strong international momentum, Abang Johari said the recent maiden export of methanol to China from Bintulu and the launch of green methanol project by state-owned Sarawak PetChem Sdn Bhd had sent clear signals that Sarawak is moving up the clean energy value chain. 'As part of our ongoing low-carbon transition, we are also advancing infrastructure that support cleaner energy systems, including the development of hydrogen-ready technologies, such as our combined cycle gas turbine facility.' He said these initiatives aim to boost energy efficiency, strengthen power security and open potential interconnections with neighbouring regions, such as Sabah and Brunei. 'These efforts have not gone unnoticed. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has recognised Sarawak's leadership in this transition. 'Bintulu has been nominated as Malaysia's first candidate for the WEF Transitioning Industrial Cluster (TIC), a reflection of WEF's confidence in our ability to balance industrial growth with sustainability. 'As we engage key players in Bintulu and Samalaju (where energy-intensive industries are operating) to formalise our TIC Statement of Ambition, we are not just preparing for recognition in Davos early next year. 'We are laying the foundation for Sarawak to stand among global leaders in shaping the low-carbon industrial future,' he added. TIC are geographic areas where co-located businesses and industries collaborate to transition from traditional practices to cleaner, low-carbon operations aligned with net-zero goals. To-date, 35 industrial clusters have signed on to the initiative and they include Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Ohio Clean Hydrogen Hub Alliance in the United States and the Kawasaki Carbon Neutral Complex in Japan. The premier has been invited to share Sarawak's green energy ambitions at the WEF annual meeting of the new champions in Tianjin, China, on June 26. Abang Johari said in view of Sarawak's growing role in the global energy sector, he had directed state-owned Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) to undertake a review and restructure its organisational framework. This involves the separation of power generation and distribution, where power generation will involve investments from the private sector. SEB will continue its function as the single buyer for electricity distribution in Sarawak. 'We have already seen a strong interest from private sector players in implementing large-scale solar and other renewable projects, such as bio-energy and waste-to-energy initiatives. 'The development of new renewable energy sources through the independent power producer model is central to Sarawak's ambition of achieving 10GW of total installed capacity by 2030 and 15GW by 2035. 'Under the upcoming Sarawak Energy Transition Policy, we have set a target for renewables to make up at least 60% to 70% by 2025,' he added. Abang Johari said the restructuring of the SEB is key to ensuring the utility body is fully able to drive Sarawak's vision of becoming both a 'Battery of Asean' and a renewable energy powerhouse. On the state's ambition to establish an aerospace hub, he said a Sarawak-Airbus joint task force will be set up to formulate a roadmap for the development of the state's aerospace industry, involving expertise from both parties. During his recent visit to Airbus' headquarters in France, Abang Johari said the aerospace company is supportive of Sarawak's ambitions and had proposed the Airbus-Sarawak Kenyalang Strategic Partnership Avenues, which will cover six key areas. These are paths towards sustainable aviation fuel production; human capital development; industrial ecosystem development; digital airline journey; Airbus consulting project for Air Borneo; and airspace operation. Also discussed was the development of an aerotropolis in Sarawak, which will include the new Kuching International Airport. The new airport, which is targeted to accommodate more than 15 million passengers annually, will embody modern, green architectural principles and be equipped with cutting-edge systems to ensure a seamless passenger journey, from check-in to boarding. 'The development of our new international airport and deep seaport in Kuching will involve private sector investments and not only be funded by the Sarawak government. 'There has been expression of interest by the private sector, local multi-national and international corporations to spearhead the projects,' said Abang Johari.
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
Sarawak approves effort to boost bilingual proficiency
KUCHING: The Sarawak Government will begin implementing a standardised assessment for the Dual Language Programme (DLP) based on international standards of Cambridge University Press and Assessment (CUP&A) for Year Six students in October. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the Education Ministry has granted approval for the Sarawak education, innovation and talent development ministry (MEITD) to collaborate with Cambridge University to roll out the initiative. 'This DLP programme will be reviewed and validated by Cambridge University Press and Assessment to ensure its implementation aligns with international standards,' he said in a statement issued by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit yesterday. The announcement follows the signing of a service contract between CUP&A and Swinburne Innovation Malaysia (SWIM) in Cambridge on Wednesday. The event was part of the premier's working visit to the United Kingdom, which began on Tuesday. Jane Mann, managing director of Partnerships for Education at CUP&A, represented the Cambridge side, while SWIM was represented by its chief executive officer George Ngui, Bernama reported. According to Abang Johari, the programme would follow the national curriculum utilising Bahasa Malaysia as the primary medium, while English would serve as the secondary medium for assessment based on Cambridge's international syllabus. Swinburne University, a strategic partner in the initiative, would work alongside Cambridge to implement the assessments in Sarawak. 'This initiative aims to produce students proficient in both languages, thereby equipping them to pursue higher education in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics,' he added. The premier also noted that MEITD is collaborating with Cambridge University to develop a range of high-quality bilingual programmes and scholarship opportunities to allow Sarawakian students to pursue studies in emerging strategic economic sectors. He added that both parties had agreed to facilitate the placement of qualified Sarawakian students from international school systems in world-renowned institutions, including the University of Cambridge, Oxford and the London School of Economics in the United Kingdom, as well as Harvard University in the United States. 'Sarawak is targeting a special quota of 10 placements for outstanding students in selected fields,' Abang Johari added.
Borneo Post
a day ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
The O&G story: What next after the joint declaration?
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (left) and Premier of Sarawak uk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg exchanging the documents on the joint declaration, signed in Putrajaya recently. — Photo courtesy of the Office of Premier of Sarawak WILLIAM Shakespeare's famous line, 'All's well that ends well', from the play of the same name, takes on a complex meaning when applied to the oil and gas (O&G) joint declaration. Still, Sarawakians are proud and delighted to commemorate this milestone as a significant turning point in the state's O&G story. While it might appear to acknowledge a satisfactory resolution, the agreement also implicitly acknowledges the disturbing procedures and compromises, leading to this so-called 'positive outcome' or 'happy ending'. And so, what next? The declaration's 'happy ending' might mask a path of questionable decisions and compromises before the two contending parties arrived at the joint declaration. The line, thus, becomes a point of debate and discussion, prompting audiences to consider what truly constitutes a successful resolution and the ethical costs involved in achieving it. Challenging question Imagine being presented with a challenging question on a Cambridge HSC General Paper examination that requires careful consideration of the possible long-term effects of the newly-signed O&G agreement between Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur. The question challenges us to analyse the ramifications of this agreement and to provide an analytical trajectory of the potential paths for the state and the O&G sector. Students in Form 6 and university undergraduates in public policy and government should engage in this exercise to assess their understanding of the subject content, and their ability to critically connect it to the current socio-political context. They should be up for the challenge! This makes us question if we really understand the intricacy of the issue at hand. In retrospect, it compels us to examine if our sentiments and limited viewpoints have impeded our capacity to conduct a fair and impartial analysis of the situation. Setting the context is obviously the right starting point and proceeding from there to view rising expectations and interlocking implications that would follow, is a natural course to expect. Complicated bargains The recently-inked agreement establishing operational jurisdiction for O&G activities between Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) is a start in the right direction, but it is unlikely to entirely fulfil both entities' objectives and expectations. It is anticipated that ongoing negotiations and adjustments will be necessary to reach a truly mutually agreeable operating framework. The agreement demonstrates a willingness to collaborate and share resources, but the complexities surrounding revenue-sharing, operational control, and future exploration rights may still pose challenges. Generally speaking, resource agreements with high political and financial stakes – like the one aimed at resolving the O&G dispute between Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur – are complicated bargains. Even though the signed declaration may include crucial issues like income-sharing, regulatory power, and production-sharing, we need to acknowledge that Petronas and Petros may have inherent differences in priorities. For example, Petros would want a higher proportion of the revenue from O&G for Sarawak's development, while Petronas is devoted to striking a balance between national duty and profitability. The ink is dry on the joint declaration, but expectations are high on how soon the O&G would truly turn a page. The line of enquiry raises the question – what happens next? This pact might be a landmark, but it is also the starting line. Navigating shifting power politics, volatile prices, and the ever-present pressure for decarbonisation means the O&G industry faces a future that is as challenging as ever. How effectively will this signed declaration translate into tangible definers of progress, or will it need to be revisited and reviewed from time to time? These are pertinent questions that challenge us to look beyond today. Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the next chapter is unwritten, and the stakes may be high. The Prime Minister and Premier of Sarawak with federal and state leaders posing for a photo-call after the historic signing of the joint declaration. — Photo courtesy of the Office of Premier of Sarawak Other considerations There may be other considerations that need to be addressed to allow the agreement to be transacted effectively, and to create a conducive environment for future cooperation to be promoted. Such considerations may involve making joint investments to facilitate technology transfer in the local O&G sector and build local capacity, establishing robust and transparent mechanisms for dispute resolution, to putting in place rigorous environmental protection policies throughout the O&G value chain. Additionally, maintaining social peace and sustainable development will require ensuring that local communities affected by O&G operations are included in the long-term agenda, and that they are to receive equitable benefits. Effective management of these social challenges requires a genuine 'give and take' approach in the allocation of resources and opportunities. Navigating this requires open channels, continuous dialogue from all of us – among the federal government, Sarawak state government, Petronas, Petros, and the local communities. For Sarawak, invalidating the Petroleum Development Act (PDA) 1974 is a complicated legal and political issue. The Sarawak state administration sees it as a possible, but drastic, measure to reclaim more authority over its O&G resources. The contention is based on the belief that the PDA is intruding into Sarawak's constitutional rights and thus, watering down the state's rightful portion of revenue and ownership of its natural resources within its territory. But such a move would spark an extended legal contest with the federal government and would have devastating impacts on the national O&G industry. As such, before taking this path, Sarawak must explore and have access. The Sarawak administration sees invalidating the PDA 1974 as a possible, but drastic, measure to reclaim more authority over its O&G resources. — Bernama photo Crucial shift point Some critics view the joint agreement as a shift point, which sets the groundwork for a more just and sustainable partnership. Notwithstanding, it remains to be said that the O&G agreement still requires good faith and continued vigilance to ensure its long-term success and mutual advantage. Ultimately, the success of the signed declaration will be gauged by its ability to improve the life of the people of Sarawak, as well as to contribute to the progress and prosperity of the country. The joint declaration on O&G represents a move towards greater cooperation and a more equitable distribution of wealth and opportunities. It does show that the federal government is willing to discuss and give Sarawak more power over its resources and independence. This negotiated arrangement to address Sarawak's concerns about its O&G rights is significant within the broader context of devolution under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 63), and it should not be viewed in isolation of other socio-political dynamics. Beyond the historic joint agreement, it is hoped that the Kuala Lumpur-Kuching cooperation will serve as the basis for future agreements and legal discourse that, rather than being adversarial, uphold the spirit and letter of MA63. However, the true impact of the joint declaration will depend on its implementation and how the modifications to Sarawak's revenue-sharing, regulatory authority, and operational domain are defined. Sarawak in advantageous position A closer examination reveals that Sarawak may have secured a more advantageous position, although both sides are likely touting the agreement as a win-win. Interestingly, a shift in the power dynamic is apparent with Sarawak's increased control over its O&G resources, which may be achieved through greater revenue-sharing, decision-making power in exploration and production, and participation in the value chain. As Sarawakians, we would like to view it as a decisive victory for our state, and we recognise that its long-term economic effects and the details of its implementation must follow suit. Equally gratifying to us is that initial indications suggest the joint agreement is a significant step towards greater autonomy and resource control for Sarawak. Sarawak's greater control over its hydrocarbon resources is the primary factor contributing to its advantage. Sarawak can avoid depending on federal funding by actively participating in the lucrative O&G industry and producing a sizeable amount of revenue for the state through Petros. This increase could improve the standard of living of Sarawakians by funding the development of infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other important areas. Sarawak can avoid depending on federal funding by actively participating in the lucrative O&G industry and producing a sizeable amount of revenue for the state through Petros. Sustainable, equitable collaboration Discerning critics will concur with me that further discussion is necessary in several crucial areas to reinforce the Kuala Lumpur-Sarawak joint declaration on O&G in Sarawak. Clarifying the definition of 'net revenue' and putting in place transparent, mutually agreed-upon accounting practices are crucial to avoid disputes regarding revenue sharing. Sarawak's role in overseeing O&G operations, including enforcing environmental rules, must be strengthened to ensure that resources are used responsibly. Investing in Sarawakian talent development in the O&G sector through focused education and training programmes would give power to the local communities and make the industry more sustainable. Lastly, to avoid problems and keep the collaboration strong and productive, there should be a clear way to resolve disputes that includes specific steps and deadlines. Although we commend Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak for their willingness to collaborate and pool resources, there may still be 'gaps' due to the intricacies of revenue-sharing, operational control, and future exploration rights. Neither side should lose sight of this. Given this, the joint declaration should be regarded as a transitional stage that aims to establish the framework for a more sustainable and equitable collaboration. Amidst the signed declaration, Petronas appears to be devoted to striking a balance between national duty and profitability. — AFP photo Secure Petros' position However, to guarantee its long-term success and mutual gain, both parties must maintain their vigilance and act in good faith. The declaration's actual effectiveness will ultimately be determined by how it affects Sarawakians' quality of and the country's general prosperity. Petros has secured a favourable bargain. This stems from several considerations. First, the power balance shifted from one heavily federally dominated to one of state dominance as a result of the mutual understanding, which gives Sarawak increased authority over the extraction, development, and production of O&G resources inside its borders. This includes greater control over operational choices, profit-sharing, and direct access to its natural resources. Additionally, the deal enables Sarawak to develop its O&G industry knowledge and capabilities, generating jobs and promoting technological development in the state. Sarawak can strengthen its position and ensure future prosperity by ensuring that future development is in line with its nuanced needs and priorities rather than being limited by federal interests. This can be achieved by having a defining say in resource management decisions. * Toman Mamora is 'Tokoh Media Sarawak 2022', recipient of Shell Journalism Gold Award (1996) and AZAM Best Writer Gold Award (1998). He remains true to his decades-long passion for critical writing as he seeks to gain insight into some untold stories of societal value. MA63 oil and gas PDA Petronas Petros sarawak
Barnama
2 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
S'wak Pushing For Dayak Community Progress Via Free Education, Rural Development
KUCHING, May 31 (Bernama)– The Sarawak government is committed to enhancing the economic and social standing of the Dayak community through initiatives such as free higher education and the continued development of rural infrastructure, in line with the goals outlined in the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). State Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said education remains the most powerful tool to ensure inclusive progress among all communities in Sarawak. 'The Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) is expected to cost the state RM300 million in its first year of implementation next year, benefitting around 10,000 students at four state-owned universities. 'I believe this initiative will open doors for many Sarawakian youths, especially those from low-income families and rural areas, to pursue degree-level studies in selected fields,' he said in his message ahead of the Gawai Dayak 2025 celebration tomorrow. Abang Johari said the programme covers full tuition fees and includes an annual living allowance of RM15,000 for students from households earning RM1,500 and below. Abang Johari also said that Sarawak's revenue has surged to RM15 billion in 2024, compared to RM6 billion eight years ago, enabling the state to intensify efforts in infrastructure development, including the construction of roads, bridges and coastal highways. He said the construction of bridges across the state reflects the GPS-led government's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure, thereby facilitating the movement of people, agricultural produce and local industrial goods. Meanwhile, the Premier said that the state government is considering a proposal to convert 5,000 kilometres of decommissioned logging roads, such as those in the Kapit division, into public roads. 'If implemented, this plan would greatly improve rural connectivity with a more structured road system,' he said.
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
No Sarawakian left behind in drive for inclusive growth, says Abang Johari in Gawai message
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his wife Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Juma'ani Tuanku Bujang wishes all Dayak celebrants and fellow Sarawakians a joyful and blessed Gawai Dayak celebration. – Photo courtesy of Premier's Office KUCHING (May 31): Sarawak's Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), set to begin next year, will enable many Sarawakians from underprivileged and rural backgrounds to pursue higher education at the degree level, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The Premier said the initiative, which is part of the state's broader push for inclusive development under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, aims to ensure that no one is left behind. 'In other words, the prosperity of Sarawak must benefit all Sarawakians, regardless of religious background, lineage, or where they live,' he said in his Gawai Dayak message. Abang Johari emphasised that education is the best tool for uplifting communities and narrowing socio-economic disparities across the state. 'I strongly believe that education is the most powerful and effective way to unite every race in this state to jointly achieve the development of this state. 'The free education initiative at the university level or FTES starting next year is a step to open up opportunities for Sarawakian children without having to worry about the financial capabilities of the students' families,' he said. He noted that FTES, which is expected to cost RM300 million in its first year, will support 10,000 students enrolled in four state-owned higher learning institutions in 2026. 'This initiative includes free tuition fees and an allowance of RM15,000 per year for students from families earning RM1,500 or less per month,' he said. The Premier said the scheme will prioritise degree programmes in fields that are crucial for Sarawak's future workforce needs, namely Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), medicine, law, accounting, finance, and psychology. He said these fields were chosen to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge required by a rapidly evolving job market. He also highlighted the state's efforts to strengthen access to world-class education through the establishment of Yayasan Sarawak International Schools. 'Admission to these schools is open to all Sarawakians who demonstrate academic excellence, especially children of farmers, fishermen, and those from the B40 group. 'Through this initiative, I am confident that many Sarawakian children will have the opportunity to be accepted into renowned universities such as the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom and Stanford University in the United States,' he said. On another matter, Abang Johari said Sarawak is exploring plans to convert 5,000km of unused logging roads, such as those in Kapit division, into public roads to improve rural connectivity and economic access. He said this initiative is part of the Sarawak government's development strategy to fast-track infrastructure delivery in rural and interior areas. 'If implemented, this plan will greatly improve rural connectivity through a more structured road network,' he said. He acknowledged that many rural and remote areas in Sarawak still lack sufficient infrastructure to support the movement of people and agricultural logistics. 'The conventional administrative and development approach is no longer sufficient to accelerate development in Sarawak, which is almost the size of Peninsular Malaysia which is divided into 11 states under the administration of 11 Menteri Besars and Chief Ministers. 'Therefore, the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government has established local development agencies under the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) to further intensify development efforts across Sarawak, especially in rural areas that require infrastructure and public utilities,' he said. He said the GPS government under his leadership, with the strong support of his colleagues in the State Cabinet, has worked hard over the past eight years to increase Sarawak's revenue. 'Alhamdulillah, Sarawak's revenue in 2024 has increased to RM15 billion from around RM6 billion eight years ago. 'With this increase revenue, the Sarawak government can implement more robust development programmes with greater confidence and vigour, particularly in terms of providing infrastructure facilities such as roads, bridges, costal roads, the Second Trunk Road to shorten travel distance between Kuching and Sibu, and access roads in rural areas,' he said. He said this month alone, two bridges were officially open to the public namely the Batang Rajang Bridge not far from Sarikei to facilitate travel from Sarikei to Tanjung Manis, and the Saribas Bridge No.1. 'I officiated the Batang Rajang Bridge on May 17, which is the fourth bridge completed this year in a major plan to upgrade infrastructure facilities in Sarawak to catalyse economic growth. 'On May 25, the fifth bridge across Batang Saribas namely the 1.55km Saribas Bridge No.1 which cost RM376 million, was opened for public use,' he said. He also said that other bridges expected to be completed this year are the Sungai Lingga, Batang Igan, Batang Lupar I, Sungai Limbang, Sebauh, and Sejingkat bridges. 'The construction of these bridges are among the 12 planned bridges, demonstrating the GPS government's commitment to upgrading Sarawak's road transport network to facilitate the movement of people, agricultural products and industrial products,' he added. Abang Johari also touched on the recent mutual agreement between the Sarawak government and federal government in moving forward to develop the oil and gas industry in Sarawak in the spirit of respecting both federal and state laws. 'It is the aspiration of the people of Sarawak to utilise the returns from the state's natural resources to develop our state. 'Once again, I would like to thank the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for understanding our people's hopes for Sarawak to progress like other developed regions,' he said. He said these aspirations are the legacy of past leaders who were other leaders of this country in the formation of Malaysia in 1963. 'The hopes of those leaders in 1963 are also the hopes of Sarawakians today – that Sarawak will one day become a developed and high-income region as envisioned in the PCDS 2030,' he said.
