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Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
59 Beladin fishermen receive new homes under RM21.25 mln resettlement project
Abang Johari visits one of the fishermen in his new home. – Information Department photo KUCHING (July 19): A total of 59 fishermen from Beladin in Betong have moved into new homes under the Fishermen's Resettlement Project (PSN) Beladin — a milestone aimed at improving living conditions for coastal communities. The key handover ceremony was performed today by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who later visited one of the recipients' homes and presented food baskets as a gesture of support from the state government. According to a statement from the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM), the PSN Beladin project is a joint initiative involving the Sarawak government, its Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), LKIM, and the Sarawak State Economic Planning Unit, with a total allocation of RM21.25 million. 'The first phase saw the completion of 68 housing units at a cost of RM6.8 million, of which 59 have been handed over to recipients who have signed home ownership agreements,' said the authority. The PSN Beladin initiative reflects the government's commitment to providing well-planned, comfortable, and strategically located housing for fishing communities – essential contributors to the state's fisheries sector. LKIM added that the initiative is also in line with the Sarawak government's aspirations to improve the quality of life for its people, particularly for fishermen who are key contributors to the state's fisheries sector. LKIM stressed the importance of ongoing collaboration between federal and state governments in ensuring the sustained well-being of fishing communities, including through infrastructure upgrades, economic empowerment, and climate resilience. 'This synergy is crucial in planning, implementing, and monitoring various development initiatives, including the provision of better housing, improvements to basic infrastructure, and the creation of new economic opportunities. 'Continued cooperation is also expected to strengthen the resilience of fishing communities in facing current and future challenges, in line with the goal of making the national fisheries sector more sustainable and competitive,' added the authority. Among those present at the key handover ceremony were Deputy Secretary-General (Policy) of the State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dato Sri Norazman Ayob; Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas; LKIM Deputy Director-General (Development) Rashima Baharuddin; elected representatives and government officials.
Borneo Post
16-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
OTSM launches RM2 bln polysilicon plant construction in Bintulu, eyes 2029 operations
Abang Johari (centre) and other dignitaries officiate the groundbreaking ceremony for the OTSM plant. SAMALAJU (July 16): OCI Tokuyama Semiconductor Materials Sdn Bhd (OTSM) has officially launched the construction of its RM2 billion semiconductor-grade polysilicon plant at the Samalaju Industrial Park, marking a major milestone in Sarawak's industrialisation push. The facility, spanning 13.7 hectares, will have an annual production capacity of 8,000 metric tonnes of high-purity polysilicon for the semiconductor industry, targeting export markets in South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. Operations are expected to commence in 2029. Construction is set to begin in the third quarter of this year, with mechanical completion projected for the first quarter of 2027. OTSM is a 50:50 joint venture between South Korea's OCI TerraSus Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of OCI Holdings, and Japan's Tokuyama Corporation. The project is expected to create around 200 high-value jobs, contributing to Sarawak's economic growth and the development of its technical workforce. This marks OCI TerraSus' second major investment in Sarawak, following the launch of its joint venture with Kumho P&B Chemicals – OCI Kumho – to produce epichlorohydrin (ECH), a key component in epoxy resins and water treatment chemicals. During the groundbreaking ceremony, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg witnessed the signing of a 10-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between OCI TerraSus and Syarikat Sesco Berhad, the operations and retail arm of Sarawak Energy. Under the agreement, the new plant will receive 80 megawatts of power from Sarawak Energy for a 10-year period starting in 2029. OCI Holdings and OCI TerraSus Chairman Lee WooHyun said the joint venture between OCI TerraSus and Tokuyama was especially meaningful, bringing together industrial powerhouses from Korea and Japan in a rare international collaboration. 'It is a powerful reflection of our strong confidence in Sarawak as a strategic investment destination. 'We believe this plant is more than just a physical structure, it is a symbol of what can be achieved when vision, values, and partnerships align. 'It stands as a model for innovation, sustainability, and meaningful local impact,' he said. Lee said the investment also reflects confidence in Sarawak's leadership, stability, and long-term vision under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030. 'We are confident that our OTSM plant will play a pivotal role in achieving this vision by creating high-quality jobs and transferring global best practices. 'We are grateful to the Sarawak Government and Sarawak Energy Berhad for creating an ecosystem that welcomes responsible industrial growth. 'Their strategic policies and renewable energy infrastructure are key enablers of this international partnership,' he said. He also emphasised the importance of developing a skilled local workforce, highlighting institutions such as Centexs and the Sarawak Skills Development Centre as key partners. 'OCI TerraSus is proud to deepen our roots in Sarawak. This is not just an investment in infrastructure, it is an investment in people, in innovation, and in a shared future built on sustainability and trust,' Lee added. In a recorded message, Tokuyama Corporation President Hiroshi Yokota said the project would further strengthen Sarawak's role in the global semiconductor supply chain. 'With the seasoned technical expertise and experience of OCI and Tokuyama, along with the support of the Sarawak state government, the region's talented workforce, and competitive energy source, we will be able to produce high-quality products consistently,' he said. lead OTSM polysilicon plant Samalaju Semiconductor
Borneo Post
16-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Premier: Sarawak committed to becoming major high-tech player powered by clean, sustainable energy
Abang Johari (centre) witnesses the exchange of documents for the 10-year Power Purchase Agreement between OCI TerraSus and Syarikat Sesco Berhad. BINTULU (July 16): Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has reaffirmed Sarawak's commitment to becoming a major player in high-tech industries, particularly the semiconductor sector, while embracing clean and sustainable energy to power the state's industrial transformation. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for OCI Tokuyama Semiconductor Materials Sdn Bhd (OTSM) at Samalaju Industrial Park today, Abang Johari congratulated both OCI TerraSus and Tokuyama Corporation for choosing Sarawak as the location for their strategic investment. 'This marks a significant milestone in advancing high technology industrial development in the region. It also reflects our commitment to sustainable partnerships that will power the future,' he said. Abang Johari described the ceremony as a strong testament to investor confidence in Sarawak's political stability, robust infrastructure, and long-term vision. He noted that the plant further solidifies Sarawak's reputation as a trusted and strategic destination for sustainable, high-tech investments. He highlighted that semiconductors are at the heart of the modern digital economy and said this investment strengthens Sarawak's position in the global semiconductor value chain. 'With this investment, Sarawak moves one step closer to becoming an advanced technology manufacturing hub in the region,' said Abang Johari, adding that it aligns with the state's semiconductor strategic framework, which aims to attract investments across the entire value chain. He also linked the investment to OCI Terasus' earlier collaboration with Korea's Kumho P&B Chemicals for epichlorohydrin (ECH) production, saying it sends a clear signal that long-term investors continue to find value in Sarawak's thriving industrial ecosystem. Abang Johari also elaborated on the vital role of materials such as wafers. 'Based on our observation, semiconductor is a very fast-growing industry, it is based on the latest technology and also the material value chain in producing the product that is needed in the semiconductor industry. 'This material plant I hope will also produce electronics such as wafers that are very important in manufacturing electronics and also high communicating devices including satellites,' he said. The Premier pointed out the Sarawak government is also forming its own semiconductor manufacturing firm. The initiative includes a partnership with an academy in Cardiff, Wales, where a Sarawak-funded research lab is developing a scalable AI power chip. 'We hope that by the end of the year, we will be able to register international intellectual property (IP) on this AI power chip,' he said, adding that this is part of Sarawak's roadmap to become a serious contender in the global semiconductor industry. The Premier also underscored Sarawak's commitment to green energy and sustainable industrial practices, highlighting the state's use of hydro and solar power, with plans to incorporate battery technology to enhance solar reliability. 'What you need is green energy to produce green material. Then you can have certifications that are globally recognised as green products. In the long run, the global economy will demand sustainable, decarbonised solutions,' he noted. He added that Sarawak's Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) prioritises environmental sustainability, with green energy forming the core of its energy policies. The state currently generates 70 per cent of its power from hydropower, with floating solar installations and methane-based green gas energy also in the pipeline. He said to support the workforce needs of this expanding sector, the Sarawak government is offering free tertiary education to all Sarawakians studying in state universities. 'We are working closely with the industry to ensure we produce the right talent to match the rapid global developments,' Abang Johari said. He also shared insights from his recent discussions with global energy players, noting that while nuclear energy is being explored, Sarawak is instead investing in future energy based on hydrogen. 'The hydrogen molecule has the potential to produce cleaner, safer energy, perhaps even better than nuclear, this will all be powered by modern devices, including artificial intelligence,' he stated. Among those present at the event were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; and OCI Holdings and OCI TerraSus chairman Lee Woo Hyun.
Borneo Post
12-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Premier: Sarawak looks to turn cow dung into hydrogen under circular green economy push
Abang Johari placing his palm onto the digital box to activate the launch of state-level International Day of Forests (IDF) 2025 at the Forest Research Centre here today. – Penerangan photo KUCHING (July 12): Sarawak is exploring the conversion of cow dung into hydrogen as part of its long-term circular green economy strategy, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. According to the Premier, cow dung, which emits methane as it decomposes, can be processed into a renewable fuel source, opening new avenues for sustainable energy generation. 'If there are many cows, there will be a lot coming out of the cows. 'What comes out of the cows contains a lot of hydrogen because it produces methane, and from that, hydrogen can be extracted and used,' he said in his speech during the launch of the state-level International Day of Forests (IDF) 2025 at the Forest Research Centre here today. Abang Johari said this initiative aligns with Sarawak's broader aim to monetise waste under its green growth model. 'Don't waste the waste — monetise the waste,' he said, quoting what he had recently shared at the ASEAN Summit for economic leaders in Kuala Lumpur. He said the phrase has since been picked up by organisers as a key branding theme, reflecting global interest in Sarawak's approach to environmental sustainability. Sharing recent developments, Abang Johari highlighted an initiative with Sarawak Land Custody and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) in Lubok Antu to extract biomass and biofuel from palm oil kernel waste, under a RM30 million pilot project. 'When we break the kernel, it produces biomass which we can use for animal feed. 'Early trials with cattle and goats showed that local feed produced from palm waste could support healthy livestock growth. 'At the moment our animals are thin, and expensive. During Hari Raya Korban, one cow can cost up to RM12,000. That means we can use this waste to support our livestock sector,' he said. He also revealed plans to develop biofuel from the same waste — including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) — as part of Sarawak's efforts to reduce reliance on raw commodity exports and transition to value-added production. Touching on the theme of this year's IDF celebration, 'Forests and Food', Abang Johari reiterated the importance of forest conservation and sustainable resource use for long-term survival. Abang Johari plants Sarawak's 50 millionth tree — a belian — in conjunction with the state-level International Day of Forests (IDF) 2025 celebration. – Penerangan photo He praised the Forest Department Sarawak (FDS) for their achievements in seed planting efforts, noting that they had exceeded the original target of 35 million trees by planting over 50 million to date. 'I want to thank those who brought belian tree seeds. If we can nurture these, we can replant many forest species — not only belian, but also nyatoh, meranti and others,' he said. Abang Johari also expressed strong interest in the department's use of 3D data technology to monitor forest conditions and tree species, which could support Sarawak's entry into carbon trading markets. 'Every species of tree has a different capacity to absorb carbon. If you have the technology to identify tree types and characteristics, you can determine aggregate carbon absorption. That's how carbon pricing is determined,' he said. He said Sarawak's sustainability efforts are rooted in the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, where environmental sustainability is one of the three main pillars alongside economic prosperity and social inclusivity. 'We have to execute our policies considering the importance of our environment,' he said. The Premier added that Sarawak's approach has been recognised internationally. He recently returned from Tokyo, where he participated in a global hydrogen conference and shared Sarawak's sustainability blueprint and hydrogen strategy. He also confirmed that Sarawak had been invited to present its policies at the World Economic Forum in Davos, after missing a previous engagement in Tianjin. 'In Tokyo, during a panel discussion, they acknowledged what Sarawak has done for the world in terms of environmental management and green energy. InsyaAllah, we've been told that we will be invited to Davos,' he added. Abang Johari emphasised that any form of development must strike a balance with environmental protection. He noted that extreme weather events around the world — from flooding in Texas to heatwaves in Japan and China — are a warning sign. 'If we cannot manage our environment by placing sustainability as the foundation, the world's temperature will rise. That's not just dangerous for nations, it's a threat to the entire human race. 'Humans cannot survive in temperatures of 43°C, 46°C, or 48°C. This is one of the major global challenges we face today,' he said. Abang Johari Tun Openg cow dung green economy hydrogen technology
Borneo Post
07-07-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Premier to plant 50 millionth tree at state-level International Day of Forests 2025
File photo for illustration purposes KUCHING (July 8): The Forest Department Sarawak (FDS) will host the state-level 'International Day of Forests' (IDF) 2025 at the Forest Research Centre here this Saturday (July 12). The Forest Resources One Stop Gallery, a platform showcasing Sarawak's rich forest heritage, research efforts and educational resources, will also be launched in connection with this upcoming event. The key highlight will be Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg planting the 50 millionth tree, symbolising a major achievement that exceeds the original target of planting 35 million trees under the Greening Malaysia Campaign. A forestry exhibition by FDS, involving participation of partner agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academic institutions and local communities, will also be held at the event. Another highlight will be the signing of memoranda of understanding (MoUs), all aimed at strengthening collaboration in sustainable forestry, biodiversity conservation and climate action. 'Through this year's celebration, the state reaffirms its leadership in sustainable forest management and its dedication to nature-based solutions that promote resilience, food security and environmental sustainability for present and future,' said FDS in a statement yesterday. Observed globally on March 21 every year, the International Day of Forests was originally introduced as World Forestry Day in 1971 to promote awareness of the importance of forests. It was rebranded by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 to better reflect the growing urgency of forest-related issues. Notably, FDS has been observing this occasion since 1973, making it one of the longest-running forestry awareness initiatives in the region. This year's theme 'Forests and Foods' highlights the crucial role forests play in ensuring food security, safeguarding biodiversity and supporting local livelihoods. 'Forests provide vital ecosystem services such as clean air and water, climate regulation, soil fertility, and pollination – services that are essential to both the environment and the well-being of communities. 'In Sarawak, many rural and indigenous communities have long depended on forests for sustenance, cultural practices and economic activities,' said FDS.
