Latest news with #SabahLegislativeAssembly
Daily Express
25-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
How thermal energy can unlock Sabah's economic potential
Published on: Sunday, May 25, 2025 Published on: Sun, May 25, 2025 Text Size: The nutrient-rich deep ocean/sea water (DOW) used in OTEC processes can be channelled into aquaculture. (Pic: Bayu Aquaculture) The recent enactment of the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) law by the Sabah Legislative Assembly marks a pivotal step towards sustainable development. Beyond generating renewable energy, OTEC technology offers a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance Sabah's economy and the well-being of its people. Desalinated Water Production Otec systems inherently produce fresh water as a byproduct, addressing water scarcity issues prevalent in many regions. This desalinated water can support agriculture, provide potable water to communities, and reduce reliance on traditional, energy-intensive desalination methods. Aquaculture Enhancement The nutrient-rich deep ocean/sea water (DOW) used in OTEC processes can be channelled into aquaculture, fostering the cultivation of high-value marine species. Advertisement This not only boosts local food production but also creates employment opportunities in fisheries and related industries. Agricultural Productivity Soil cooling systems can utilize DOW's cool temperatures to cultivate temperate crops in tropical climates. This diversification can lead to increased agricultural yields and the introduction of new crops to the market, benefiting local farmers and consumers alike. Tourism Development Integrating OTEC facilities with tourism can create unique attractions, such as spas and wellness centres that use the mineral-rich DOW. This can attract tourists seeking novel experiences, thereby boosting the local tourism industry and generating additional revenue. Air Conditioning Efficiency District cooling systems can use the cold seawater from Otec systems as an energy-efficient alternative to air conditioning in urban areas. This reduces electricity consumption and operational costs, contributing to more sustainable urban development. Green hydrogen production. Otec technology facilitates the production of green hydrogen, a clean fuel with applications in various industries, including transportation and manufacturing. Developing a green hydrogen economy can position Sabah as a leader in renewable energy innovation. Environmental Conservation By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, Otec contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions, aiding in the fight against climate change. Additionally, the sustainable use of ocean resources promotes marine conservation efforts. Educational and research opportunities. The implementation of Otec projects can serve as a platform for scientific research and education, fostering innovation and knowledge transfer. Collaborations with academic institutions can lead to advancements in marine sciences and renewable energy technologies. Community Empowerment Participating local communities in Otec projects guarantees the equitable distribution of benefits. Capacity-building initiatives can equip residents with the skills needed to participate in and sustain these projects, promoting inclusive development. Economic Diversification The multifaceted applications of Otec technology can stimulate various sectors, from agriculture to tourism, leading to a more resilient and diversified economy. This reduces dependence on traditional industries and opens new avenues for growth. Human resource development and technology transfer. The adoption of OTEC technology necessitates special skills and knowledge, prompting the development of targeted educational and training programs. The emphasis on human resource development equips the local workforce to manage and operate OTEC facilities, promoting a culture of innovation and technical proficiency. Collaborations with international experts facilitate the transfer of technology, enabling Sabah to build local expertise and reduce dependence on external resources. Upstream and downstream business opportunities. Otec technology stimulates a spectrum of business opportunities. Upstream activities include research and development, engineering, and manufacturing of OTEC components, which can invigorate local industries and create high-skilled jobs. Downstream, the benefits extend to sectors such as agriculture, aquaculture, tourism, and water supply, all of which can leverage the outputs of Otec systems to enhance their operations and services. This integrated approach fosters a robust economic ecosystem, driving sustainable development across the state. Otec law represents a transformative opportunity for Sabah. By harnessing the ocean's thermal energy, the state can unlock a spectrum of benefits that drive economic growth, environmental sustainability and social well-being. Strategic planning and community involvement will be crucial in realising the full potential of OTEC technology, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable future for Sabah. Mohd Haris Abdul Rani (UiTM)
Daily Express
12-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Sabah polls not discussed with TYT
Published on: Monday, May 12, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 12, 2025 Text Size: This was Anwar's first courtesy call on Musa since his appointment as the new Sabah Governor in January. Kota Kinabalu: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today paid a courtesy call on Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu, Sunday. Anwar arrived at the palace at around 11am, shortly after the special aircraft carrying him landed at Terminal Two of Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 10.35am to begin a one-day working visit to the state. He signed the guest book before holding a four-eyed meeting with Musa in the Special Visitors' Hall. This was Anwar's first courtesy call on Musa since his appointment as the new Sabah Governor in January. Anwar said he did not discuss the possible dissolution of the Sabah Legislative Assembly during his meeting. He said the decision rests solely with the Governor and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. 'The meeting focused primarily on Sabah's development and strengthening cooperation between the state and federal governments,' he said. Anwar said the discussions covered various sectors, including oil, and took into account input from state leaders with the aim of addressing key concerns and identifying areas for improvement. The half-hour meeting concluded with a luncheon in the palace's dining hall. After the meeting at Istana Seri Kinabalu, Anwar proceeded to Tawau to officiate the Closing Ceremony of the Sabah Madani Rakyat Programme (PMR) 2025 at Dataran Majlis Perbandaran Tawau. Sabah Speaker Datuk Seri Kadzim Yahya had been reported as saying that the five-year term of the current state assembly will expire on November 11. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
