BDA, Press Metal sign MoU for RM600 mln solar aluminium frame facility in Samalaju
KUCHING (Feb 27): The Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) and Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish an 80,000-tonne solar module fabricated aluminium frame facility in Samalaju. The RM600 million project aims to bolster Sarawak’s position in the renewable energy sector while creating job opportunities and driving industrial growth in the region. Press Metal Group CEO Tan Sri Dato’ Paul Koon Poh Keong described the partnership as a testament to their shared commitment to economic development and sustainable manufacturing. “This MoU marks a significant milestone in our journey towards supporting Sarawak’s vision of becoming a hub for renewable energy and sustainable industrial development,” he said during the MoU signing ceremony. Koon highlighted that the new facility would enhance the Samalaju Industrial Park’s role in the global supply chain and attract further investment. “As the world shifts its focus to clean energy solutions, the demand for solar power has grown considerably. “Aluminium plays a key role in making solar panels more efficient, cost-effective, and long-lasting, which is why Press Metal is committed to expanding our capacity to meet global demands,” he said. Under the investment structure, BDA will hold a 20 per cent stake in the project, while Press Metal will own the remaining 80 per cent. The project will be funded through a 20 per cent capital injection, with the rest secured via term loans. Koon also revealed that Japanese conglomerate Sumitomo is considering investing in the venture, with an official announcement expected if the deal materialises. Beyond job creation, Press Metal plans to collaborate with local educational institutions to develop technical skills and leadership among Sarawak’s workforce. “We believe in empowering our workforce through targeted training programs, technical upskilling, and leadership development. By building a strong pipeline of skilled professionals, we can contribute to Sarawak’s growing renewable energy sector,” Koon said. He further emphasised the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability, ensuring compliance with regulations and the adoption of eco-friendly practices. “We are fully committed to ensuring that our operations comply with all environmental regulations and that we adopt the best practices to minimise our carbon footprint,” he said. Expressing gratitude to the Sarawak government for its support, he stressed that the project was more than just an industrial development. “Together, we are not just building an aluminium frame facility – we are strengthening the value chain, creating better and greater opportunities, and contributing to a cleaner, greener tomorrow for Sarawak and Malaysia,” he said. The MoU signing ceremony was witnessed by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also BDA chairman, along with other state dignitaries.
InvestSarawak, China Energy ink MoU to develop renewable energy projects
InvestSarawak, China Energy ink MoU to develop renewable energy projects (Seated, from left) Ong and He Lei exchange the signed MoU documents, witnessed by Awang Tengah (back, centre) and other distinguished guests KUCHING (April 17): China Energy Engineering Investment Corporation Limited (CEEIC) and InvestSarawak today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop 2 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy projects and related strategic infrastructure in Sarawak. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan witnessed the signing ceremony held at a leading hotel here. InvestSarawak CEO Timothy Ong signed the MoU on behalf of the company, while CEEIC was represented by its Chief Economist and General Manager of the Overseas Department, He Lei. According to Awang Tengah, who is Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment, CEEIC plans to invest US$1.35 billion (RM6.0 billion) into Sarawak’s clean energy sector, focusing on solar, battery storage, and grid infrastructure development. “Sarawak welcomes the strategic investment as it aligns with the region’s vision to harness renewable energy for sustainable development. “We are committed to strengthening Sarawak’s role as a regional hub for green energy and advancing our transition to a low-carbon economy under PCDS (Post Covid-19 Development Strategy) 2030. “This collaboration reinforces Sarawak’s position as a preferred green investment destination and supports its vision to power low-carbon industries in line with the state’s sustainable development goals. “With Sarawak’s strategic move towards low-carbon manufacturing and hydrogen economy under PCDS 2030, the partnership is part of a broader initiative to ensure long-term energy security while advancing the green agenda. “It underscores Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable energy transition and its goal to become a regional renewable energy powerhouse,” he added. Separately, InvestSarawak in a press statement said it is committed to facilitating this strategic investment interest in the region to support renewable energy development in line with Sarawak’s development agenda. “CEEIC is looking to develop approximately 2GW, alongside battery storage facilities and supporting grid infrastructure, to meet Sarawak’s growing industrial and domestic energy demands. “The flagship investment platform of China Energy Engineering Corporation Limited (CEEC) brings global expertise in energy infrastructure development and integrated clean energy systems. “CEEIC is a recognised leader in solar, wind, hydroelectric and biomass energy, as well as energy storage and grid solutions. “It has developed and managed over 12GW of operational and under-construction energy capacity across coal, hydro, wind, solar, biomass, and energy storage projects. “With investments spanning all provinces in China and extending to Vietnam and the Philippines, CEEIC’s notable achievements include Vietnam’s largest Chinese-invested power plant (Hai Duong BOT); the world’s largest light-heat storage project in Xinjiang (1.5 GW); and China’s largest biomass cogeneration facility. “Its green energy initiatives reduce over three million tonnes of CO₂ annually, reinforcing its position as a key driver in low-carbon, sustainable energy infrastructure globally,” added InvestSarawak. CEEIC deputy general manager Wang Honggang was quoted as saying: “We are honoured to partner with InvestSarawak and the Sarawak government in this renewable energy initiative. CEEIC brings with it decades of experience in renewable energy projects globally. “We believe that Sarawak offers tremendous potential for the development of large-scale solar and hybrid energy systems, and we are committed to delivering long-term value through this collaboration. “The potential investment of CEEIC shall be in concert with Sarawak’s power development planning, and implemented into several phases and subject to China’s competent approvals,” he said. Meanwhile, Ong said Sarawak is open for renewable energy investments, and that the collaboration with CEEIC is another step in positioning Sarawak at the forefront of Asean’s green growth corridor. “This collaboration signifies the latest wave of strong renewable energy interest in Sarawak, reinforcing the region’s position as a preferred destination for green investment. “In line with Sarawak’s sustainable development policy and its aspiration to become a regional leader in green growth, the partnership is expected to drive local job creation, accelerate technology transfer, and bolster long-term energy security,” he added. Also present at the signing ceremony were Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Ibrahim Baki; Deputy Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh; Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat; and Sarawak Energy group chief operating officer James Ung.
Bintulu Port takeover in final stages as Sarawak advances Port Master Plan
Uggah says Sarawak has a transformational vision in the development of its ports through the Sarawak Port Master Plan. — Bernama photo KUCHING (May 28): The takeover of Bintulu Port from federal jurisdiction to Sarawak is currently in the final stages of negotiations and the transfer is expected to take place this year, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas. He said, with the approval of the Sarawak Port Authority Ordinance in May 2024, the Sarawak government is now moving towards the operation of a single port authority, the Sarawak Port Authority, which will have regulatory jurisdiction over all port activities in Sarawak. “At the same time, the process of corporatising the existing port authorities to successor companies at each port to manage port assets and operations is being implemented jointly with the State Financial Secretary’s Office. “This process is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025,” said the State Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development in his winding up speech at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here, today. Apart from that, he also informed that for the Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port, a technical and economic feasibility study is currently underway. “The study includes site investigation, bathymetric survey, tidal observation, ocean current measurement, soil study, and environmental impact assessment. “This assessment is important to determine the port design, engineering parameters, long-term sustainability and financial viability of the development,” he said. He said Sarawak has a transformational vision in the development of its ports through the Sarawak Port Master Plan. He said it is not just a transit point but a powerful engine of economic growth, enabling Sarawak to become a major gateway to Borneo, the region and the world, and driving the aspirations of our people. “In essence, the Sarawak Port Master Plan is the first historic transformation initiative that positions Sarawak as a major player in global trade and logistics. “It is not just a development plan, but a major change in the direction of Sarawak’s economy, laying the foundation for sustainable growth that goes beyond dependence on natural resources,” he said. He said by strengthening the state’s port infrastructure and connectivity, it is opening up new opportunities for businesses, empowering local industries and opening Sarawak to the world.
Sarawak gears up to be Asean aerospace hub, plans industrial park
Awang Tengah said the development of Aerospace Industrial Park will support high-value aerospace manufacturing, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul, and sustainable aviation fuel research. – Bernama file photo KUCHING (May 28): Sarawak is gearing up to become a competitive aerospace hub in the Asean region with plans to establish an Aerospace Industrial Park. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the development of this industrial park will support high-value aerospace manufacturing, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul, and sustainable aviation fuel research. “We are partnering with Airbus to expand the aerospace industry, create high-value job opportunities and attract foreign investment,” he said in is ministerial winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting today. Awang Tengah, who is International Trade, Industry and Investment Minister, said the global aerospace industry is projected to broaden in 2025, accelerated by technological advancements, sustainability initiatives and increasing air demand. “As industry continues to evolve, Sarawak is actively developing our aerospace capabilities, focusing on aviation, space technology and satellite launch potential.” He said the newly established Sarawak Aerospace Advisory Council will spearhead aerospace industry development by enhancing education, workforce training and forging global partnerships to drive future investment and accelerate industry growth. “With a strong emphasis on talent development, Sarawak has launched the Aerospace Academy at the Centre of Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) Lundu and i-CATS University College’s Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, equipping future professionals with hands-on expertise and globally recognised qualifications,” he added. On another matter, Awang Tengah said Sarawak is emerging as a regional leader in Southeast Asia’s hydrogen economy, leveraging strategic investment opportunities through the Sarawak Green hydrogen hub in Bintulu and the upcoming hub in Kuching. “These integrated facilities operate on a ‘plug-and-play’ model, enabling multiple investors to co-locate hydrogen projects without requiring standalone infrastructure. “This approach optimises efficiency, reduces costs and accelerates hydrogen deployment, attracting global investors to Sarawak’s hydrogen ecosystem.” He said SEDC Energy and clean energy solutions provider Gentari continue to advance the Sarawak Green Hydrogen Hub, with plans for a joint venture company to develop centralised investor facilities. “The hub is currently in its Scope Development and Engineering phase. Meanwhile, flagship projects H2ornbill and H2biscus are progressing toward Front-End-Engineering-Design completion by year-end. “Malaysia and Japan have also reaffirmed their commitment to hydrogen collaboration, solidifying Sarawak’s leadership,” he said. He said the Distribution of Gas Ordinance was amended in November 2024 to ensure safe, responsible and structured development of hydrogen activities. “This milestone legislation, which came into force in March 2025, reinforces investor confidence and ensures the sustainable growth of Sarawak’s hydrogen economy,” said Awang Tengah. Source
Sarawak to establish Lake Development Authority by 2030
Abang Johari (second right) when visiting Baleh Hydroelectric Dam project. Photo: TVS KAPIT: A Lake Development Authority (LDA) is set to be established by 2030 to oversee sustainable development of lakes and dams across Sarawak. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the authority will manage all lakes in Sarawak, including major dams. These include Batang Ai, Baleh, Murum, Bakun, and other natural lakes identified for high-impact, environmentally responsible development. “There must be a balance between the project itself. The power generation project and sustainability in terms of environmental preservation. It has to be done together. “I must say that we have learned lessons from the development of Batang Ai and Bakun, and we are now adjusting ourselves in line with global needs to preserve the environment in response to climate change,” he said. He said this during a press conference after visiting the Baleh Hydroelectric Dam, here today (June 16). Abang Johari also expressed confidence in Sarawak Energy Berhad’s (SEB) ability to complete the Baleh project by the targeted 2030 timeline. He said the project, combined with the 1-gigawatt capacity from combined cycle gas plants in Bintulu and Miri, boosts the state’s energy supply. “If we add everything together, we now have around 7 gigawatts, while our actual need is only about 3 gigawatts,” he explained. By 2030, he said Sarawak expects to reach 10 gigawatts in generation capacity, not including the proposed solar or hydrogen energy projects. He added that planned solar projects in Bakun and Murum could each contribute another 1 gigawatt. “Excluding our efforts on hydrogen, it means we already have enough energy resources—with about 60 to 70 per cent coming from renewable sources. “And that is our green power,” he asserted. The Premier expressed optimism that no other region currently matches Sarawak’s green energy output, which will help attract more investors to the state. “We will also enter the Asian Green Room. I believe SEB will meet the targets through 2035, perhaps even beyond,” he added. Source
Sarawak gives green light to 450 applicants under S-MM2H
SARAWAK has approved 450 applicants for the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) Programme with Fixed Deposits (FD) placement of RM90 million in Sarawak local banks as of October this year. Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that since his ministry took over the S-MM2H programme from Sarawak Immigration Department in 2020, a one-stop panel has been set up to approve and expedite all S-MM2H applications. “From 2007 to 2019, there was only a total of 1,240 participants approved whereas from 2020 to October 2024 under the ministry’s panel committee, there was a substantial total of 1526 participants,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech today (Nov 19). Abdul Karim further said from 2007, the top applicants for the S-MM2H programme were from China with 408 applicants, United Kingdom (355), Taiwan (265), Hong Kong (260) and the United States of America (216). The Ministry of Arts and Culture (MoTAC) via Commissioner of Tourism has delegated authority under the Tourism Industry Act 1992 [Act 482] and its subsidiary laws to the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak according to subsection 4(2) of Act 482 effective Nov 1, 2024 which applies to S-MM2H program in Sarawak through the letter of commission dated Oct 30, 2024, he added. “This represents a significant achievement for my ministry in further expanding the function of the current S-MM2H One Stop Centre to not only processing applications but also licensing of S-MM2H agents,” he said. He also said that his ministry had carried out a lab with S-MM2H panel committee members, which consisted of representatives from MOTAC Sarawak, Immigration Department of Malaysia, Sarawak; State Attorney- General’s Chambers; Sarawak State Health Department; Sarawak Immigration and Labour Management Unit; Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit; and Royal Malaysian Police to finalise the latest requirements for S-MM2H programme application and guidelines to the licensing application for S- MM2H agents. “A roundtable discussion was also held with all the S- MM2H agents on Sept 5 at The Waterfront Hotel, and subsequently, it was approved by the Cabinet on Oct 24,” he said. He added the S-MM2H programme has been improved and adapted from MoTAC’s new MM2H requirements. Abdul Karin urged those interested to refer to the Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts’ website at mtcp.sarawak.gov.my for the new requirements for S-MM2H applications and licensing of S-MM2H agents. “This enhancement will take effect from Jan 1, 2025,” he said.
Julaihi: Petros’ role as sole gas aggregator non-negotiable, all parties must comply with law
KUCHING (Nov 13): Petroleum Sarawak Berhad’s (Petros) appointment as the state’s sole gas aggregator is non-negotiable, said Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi. He stressed that the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, amended in 2023, is a law that seeks to ensure all parties, including Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas), comply with the licensing requirements set out. “The Sarawak government, through Petros, is still in technical discussions with Petronas to ensure compliance with all requirements under the Ordinance. “These discussions between Petros and Petronas do not involve any negotiations on Petros’ appointment as the sole gas aggregator. “Therefore, I would like to emphasise once again that the appointment of Petros as the sole aggregator is non-negotiable, meaning no other gas aggregator exists in Sarawak except Petros,” he stressed during the question-and-answer session at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today. He was responding to a question from Lidam Assan (GPS-Katibas) on whether the appointment of Petros as the sole gas aggregator for Sarawak was fully completed, which was also asked by Safiee Ahmad (GPS-Daro), Royston Valentine (GPS-Tellian), and Iskandar Turkee (GPS-Jepak). “Therefore, I will address all these questions together. The appointment of Petros as the sole gas aggregator is effective from Feb 1, 2024. “There are no other gas aggregators in Sarawak except Petros,” he said. Julaihi added that the latest developments in Petros’ role as the sole gas aggregator in Sarawak include several Gas Sales Agreements (GSAs) which have been signed with downstream gas users including Sarawak Petchem Sdn Bhd on July 22, 2024; Sarawak Energy Berhad on July 22, 2024; and Shell MDS Sdn Bhd on Aug 18, 2024. He said the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication has issued Retail of Gas licences to 13 upstream gas players and 10 downstream gas players to date. “Failure to comply with the licensing requirement is an offence under Section 20 of the Ordinance,” he said. As the sole gas aggregator, he explained that Petros, a Sarawak government-owned company, is responsible for carrying out all activities related to the procurement, supply, distribution, and sale of natural gas in the state. He said Petros is also accountable for the planning, development, operation, and maintenance of the natural gas distribution network system in Sarawak.
Dr Jerip: Consultants to be appointed for Trans-Borneo Railway feasibility study
KUCHING (Nov 13): The federal Ministry of Transport is currently in the process of appointing consultants for the feasibility study of the Trans-Borneo Railway project, said Datuk Dr Jerip Susil. The state Deputy Transport Minister said these consultants will conduct the study, funded by the federal government, to evaluate and determine the potential railway models for implementation in Sarawak and Sabah. “The financial models of the Trans Borneo Railway, which are part of the feasibility study scope, will be determined once the feasibility study is completed. “The duration of this feasibility study project will take 12 months,” he said during the question-and-answer session at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here this morning. He was responding to a question from Baru Bian (GPS-Ba Kelalan) on the proposed Trans-Borneo Railway project. Dr Jerip said the Ministry of Transport Sarawak will be representing the Sarawak government on both the technical and steering committees, collaborating with its federal counterpart, relevant federal agencies and statutory bodies, and the Sabah government to coordinate and oversee the study. “Other committee members from the Sarawak government include representatives from the Sarawak Economic Planning Unit, Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development, Public Works Department Sarawak, Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development, and the Land and Survey Department Sarawak,” he added. He said among the scopes of the feasibility study include the technical scope, which involves operational characteristics, cost, alignment, stations and depot locations, and stakeholder management; and commercial scope involving strategic vision and value proposition, demand estimation, high-level implementation model, risk and challenges, and stakeholder engagement. “There is also the socio-economic scope involving economic case for Trans Borneo Railway Project, national economic and social impact, catalytic impact of transit nodes, high-level narratives and stakeholder engagement; and project funding where the scope is to propose project funding or financing structures, phased payment approach by Government of Malaysia, financial model, and benchmarking with other rail operators,’’ he said.
RM321 mln Batang Rajang Bridge to be completed by March 2025
By DayakDaily Team SARIKEI, Nov 8: The RM321 million Batang Rajang Bridge is expected to be fully completed by March next year, two months ahead of schedule. Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD), expressed his satisfaction with the project’s progress during a stitching ceremony for the bridge at the site today. “This project marks a milestone that will drive regional connectivity,” he said as quoted by Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) in a Facebook post today. The bridge is expected to reduce dependence on the existing Sibu-Tanjung Manis Road and provide a shorter route between these areas. The bridge’s completion will see a reduction in the journey between Sarikei and Tanjung Manis from 122 kilometres (km) to 53km with travel time cut short from 2 hours and 30 minutes to 45 minutes. Meanwhile, for the journey from Bintangor to Tanjung Manis, the travel distance will be reduced from 108km to 60km, cutting down the travel time from two hours to one hour only. Also present were Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh, who is also Kuala Rajang assemblyman; MIPD permanent secretary Datu Chew Chee Yaw; Pakan assemblyman Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom; Meluan assemblyman Rolland Duat Jubin; Sarikei Resident Datu Michael Ronnie Langgong and Sarawak JKR acting director Wisil Lichok. DayakDaily
State Budget 2025: RM1,200 pocket money for S’wakian students studying in higher learning institutions
KUCHING (Nov 11): Sarawakian students studying in higher learning institutions across the country will receive pocket money of RM1,200 next year. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this special financial assistance will benefit 25,000 Sarawakian students from families of lower income groups with household per capita income of RM1,500 or below per month. “The money given is to be spent on food and essential goods to help them mitigate the cost of living. “Under this Budget, a sum of RM30 million will be allocated for this purpose,” he said when tabling the State Budget 2025 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here today. Abang Johari said the RM500 book vouchers and free laptop for Sarawakian students initiatives, which were launched in August this year, will also be continued in 2025. “A sum of RM2 million will be allocated for the book vouchers where RM500 is allocated per person for public and private higher-learning institutions Sarawakian students for households with per capita income of RM1,500 per month and below. “The free laptop assistance to Sarawakian students who have successfully enrolled into public and private higher-learning institutions for households with per capita income of RM1,500 per month and below will empower our students with the essential technology they need to excel in their academic pursuits with an allocation of RM30.5 million next year, which will benefit 10,166 students,” he said. He also said that the Sarawak government will continue to provide annual operating grants to state-owned universities and colleges where for 2025, a sum of RM35 million will be allocated to University Technology Sarawak, RM30 million to Sarawak Skills Development Centre, RM30 million to i-CATS University College, and RM5.5 million to Kolej Laila Taib. Other allocations under the State Budget 2025 to enhance Sarawak’s education system and facilities included an allocation of RM20 million for the Sarawak Education Enhancement Programme (SEEP), a joint free tuition initiative for Form 4 and 5 students in core subjects Science, Mathematics, English and History as well as pure science subjects, with an expansion in the programme’s coverage; RM4.6 million for the teaching of Science and Mathematics in English (Dual Language Programme); and RM27 million to cover the operation cost of three state-owned international schools in Petra Jaya, Mile 12 Kuching-Serian Road, and Sibu, the latter of which is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year. Under the early childhood sector, Abang Johari said RM20 million will be allocated to state-owned early childhood provider SeDidik, and a sum of RM14 million for the annual special grant to all registered early childhood and care institutions in 2025. “To ease the burden of parents, an allocation of RM2.5 million will also be allocated next year for Tadika and Taska fee subsidies. “This will benefit 2,500 children whose parents’ monthly income is RM7,000 and below. By providing this assistance, we aim to increase Sarawak children’s access to early childhood education,” he said.
