Sarawak exploring exporting hydropower to Singapore, says Abang Jo

KUCHING: Sarawak is considering collaborating with Singapore on the exportation of hydropower and attraction of energy-intensive investments, according to Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

The leader stated that Sarawak is ready to supply up to 1,000MW of energy to Singapore.

“If Singapore requires additional energy for energy-intensive investments, we can work together and they can position those investments in Sarawak.

“That is the agreement we have with Singapore,” he informed reporters at the opening of the World Green and Sustainability Summit held on Monday (Sept 4).

Abang Johari highlighted that attracting such investments to Sarawak will contribute to the creation of high-income jobs in the state.

He emphasized the significance of education in producing qualified individuals for these job opportunities.

In his earlier speech, Abang Johari mentioned that Sarawak is looking into exporting hydropower to Singapore through submarine cables.

“Singapore requires a considerable energy supply for its industries. Sarawak might be able to provide Singapore with our green and renewable energy generated from our hydroelectric dams.

“This initiative supports Singapore’s goal to reduce the power sector’s carbon footprint by importing 30% of its electricity from low-carbon sources by 2025,” he explained.

He further shared that he had met with the Singapore government last year to discuss collaborations in renewable energy and the hydrogen economy.

“Our initial discussions with Singapore have been positive, and we are currently conducting a survey to explore the potential of connecting the power supply between Sarawak and Singapore,” he stated.

Separately, Abang Johari revealed that Sarawak aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 600,000 tonnes annually.

He informed reporters that the major contributors to carbon emissions are the cement and construction industries and the transportation sector.

“We can decrease carbon emissions through measures such as utilizing renewable energy for our public transportation.

“Our policy focuses on firstly reducing emissions, secondly introducing alternative energy, and thirdly educating the public to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy,” he outlined.