Bintulu’s Power Capacity to hit 1GW By 2035 to Drive Industrial Growth
KUCHING, July 23 – Sarawak is set to develop two gas-fired power plants, with a capacity of 500 megawatts each, which will increase Bintulu’s total power generation capacity to one gigawatt by 2035. Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said that the initiative is aimed not only at meeting the needs of the local population, but also at fulfilling the demands of investors, particularly in the rapidly growing industrial and green technology sectors in Bintulu. “The comprehensive development plan also includes the construction of an international school in Bintulu, to attract professional workers and foreign investors to reside and settle here,” he said, during the opening of a hotel in Bintulu, here, today. Abang Johari, recalling Bintulu’s development history, said that it began with the discovery of natural gas and subsequent investments in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, which spurred the construction of ports and other essential facilities, such as hotels and accommodation for industry players. He noted that this investment-driven development model has transformed Bintulu into a new growth hub, encompassing not only the Kidurong area, but also extending to Samalaju. “This rapid development necessitates the provision of comfortable facilities, including international-class hotels, to meet the needs of tourists, delegations and investors. “To further support Bintulu’s economic growth, a high-tech autonomous rail transit (ART) system, powered by hydrogen, will be implemented under the 13th Malaysia Plan, connecting three strategic locations – Bintulu, Kidurong and Samalaju,” he said. He added that Bintulu will be the second city after Kuching to have the ART system, which will enhance accessibility, facilitate movement, and promote sustainable development. “As I mentioned in Miri recently, Bintulu is now globally recognised as one of the 36 low-carbon industrial clusters in the world. This demonstrates that Bintulu has become a key global focus,” he said. Source
OTSM, Invest Sarawak ink MoA to drive semiconductor ecosystem, tech hub vision
Choi (right) and Ong exchange the signed document, witnessed by Awang Tengah (standing behind, centre). KUCHING (Aug 8): OCI Tokuyama Semiconductor Materials Sdn Bhd (OTSM) and Invest Sarawak have signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) today to boost Sarawak’s ambition of becoming a leading regional technology hub. The partnership seeks to develop supply chains, forge strategic collaborations, and build industrial ecosystems to support OTSM’s upcoming high-purity semiconductor-grade polysilicon plant. OTSM chief executive officer Steve Choi said the collaboration would create opportunities for Sarawak businesses and talent while enabling local suppliers to participate in the global semiconductor value chain. “This will strengthen Sarawak’s position as a competitive hub in the global semiconductor industry and drive long-term economic prosperity,” he said in a statement. He added that the initiative was expected to attract significant high-value investments and spur the growth of advanced manufacturing. The MoA was signed by Choi and Invest Sarawak chief executive officer Timothy Ong, witnessed by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan at the World Expo in Osaka. Last month, OTSM – a 50:50 joint venture between OCI TerraSus and Japan’s Tokuyama Corporation – broke ground on its RM2 billion semiconductor-grade polysilicon plant at Samalaju Industrial Park, Bintulu. Occupying 13.7 hectares, the facility is scheduled to begin operations in 2029, with an annual production capacity of 8,000 metric tonnes, supplying major technology markets in Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. This marks OCI’s third major investment in Sarawak, following its 2017 acquisition of Tokuyama Malaysia’s solar-grade polysilicon plant, now operating as OCI TerraSus, which produces 35,000 metric tonnes annually. The second investment is a joint venture with Kumho P&B Chemicals to produce epichlorohydrin – a chemical used in epoxy and rubber production – slated to be commenced by year-end. Source
Petros multifuel station in Batu Kawa on track to start operations soon — SEDCE
KUCHING (June 22): The Petros Multifuel Station (MFS) Batu Kawa, the second flagship station equipped with hydrogen supply and 11th station in Sarawak, is on track to being operational soon. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian in a recent visit to the site was briefed on its progress and features by the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation Energy (SEDCE) team. “The physical structure of the MFS is fully completed, and the team is working closely with the regulatory authorities before the station can be operated,” said SEDCE in a statement. MFS Batu Kawa is the second flagship station after MFS Darul Hana, which is designed for conventional fuels, fast EV chargers and hydrogen dispensing. It will be getting its hydrogen supply from MFS Darul Hana, where the onsite hydrogen plant with 150kg production capacity is located, and the hydrogen supply will be transported via tube trailers where Mobile Hydrogen Refuelling System will be used for dispensing the molecules. This distribution model will be the first of its kind in the region. Earlier this year, SEDCE appointed Koperasi Bomba & Penyelamat Malaysia (KOBOPEM) as the operator for MFS Batu Kawa, which aims to support the cooperative as sustainable income stream for its members. SEDCE is responsible for developing the hydrogen value chain and downstream retail oil and gas business in Sarawak under the brand name Petros MFS. To date, there are 10 fully operating stations namely MFS Darul Hana (Jalan Tun Salahuddin), MFS Daro (Jalan Matu-Daro), MFS Kanowit (Jalan Kubu), MFS Kuala Matu (Jalan Daro–Kuala Matu), MFS Brooke Drive (Sibu), MFS Selangau (Pan Borneo-Selangau), MFS Tatau (Pan Borneo Tatau), Kapit (Jalan Bleteh), MFS Sungai Asap (Jalan Bintulu-Bakun), MFS Jepak (Kampung Jepak). SEDCE said with the completion of MFS Darul Hana and MFS Batu Kawa, four more flagship MFS are in the pipeline namely Sri Aman, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri, with construction for Bintulu (Jalan Sultan Iskandar) scheduled to begin in the second half of this year. These flagship MFS are designed to form the backbone of Sarawak’s hydrogen refuelling network along its main cities. In comparison, non-flagship or standard MFS provide conventional fuels and EV charging facilities. Meanwhile, it said three MFS are currently under construction, and more than 40 sites are being processed for construction across Sarawak. Upon completion, these stations will also provide a network of EV charging facilities on top of conventional fuel to its customers. Source
AI-driven healthcare takes centre stage at Miri’s KSC Summit 2025
(From left) Tuong, Lee, Dong and Teo with the signed MoUs. MIRI (Nov 23): Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to drive the next wave of healthcare innovation in Sarawak, with Miri positioned to lead regional development under the Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) initiative. State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the theme of this year’s KSC Summit, ‘AI + Healthcare: From Research to Real World Impact’, reflects a global shift toward data-driven healthcare and presents major opportunities for Sarawak. “AI is reshaping diagnostics, therapeutics and public health systems worldwide. For Miri and Sarawak, this is the moment to translate research into solutions that improve health outcomes,” he said at the opening of the KSC Summit 2025 here. A key highlight was the growing collaboration in integrative and AI-supported medicine, particularly Fudan University Joint Research Centre for Innovative Drug Development in Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine + AI Medical Experience Centre known as ‘THE HALL’, which is supported by Curtin University Malaysia and led by Imasa Dinasti. Lee said the centre demonstrates how AI and integrative medicine can work together to develop new therapeutics and improve clinical outcomes. Meanwhile, two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the summit to strengthen Miri’s position in AI healthcare. The first, involving Imasa Dinasti, Fudan University and Curtin Malaysia, formalises cooperation in AI-driven integrative medicine and innovative drug development within the KSC ecosystem. The second MoU, between Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering & Science and Fudan University’s Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, covers joint research, academic exchanges, co-supervision and scholarships. Lee said both agreements will nurture local talent and expand Sarawak’s access to world-leading expertise and facilities. He stressed that AI healthcare is a core pillar of the wider KSC initiative, aiming to build a healthier, more resilient and inclusive society through advanced technologies, data analytics and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The summit, he added, supports Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, especially in digital transformation, education and research excellence. “With commitment and collaboration, we can translate cutting-edge research into real-world impact,” he said, while commending Curtin Malaysia, Fudan University, Imasa Dinasti and the TAK Group for advancing high-impact innovation. Also present at the summit’s opening ceremony were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebatian Ting; Imasa Dinasti chairman Teo Ah Khing; Fudan University’s Institute of Integrative Medicine director Prof Dong Jing Cheng; and Curtin Malaysia deputy pro vice-chancellor Prof Tuong-Thuy Vu. Source
Fudan research hub a crucial step to ease doctor shortage in Sarawak, says Dr Sim
Teo (fifth left) presents a souvenir to Dr Sim after the official launching of KSC Summit 2025. MIRI (Nov 23): The establishment of the Fudan University Institute of Integrative Medicine Research Development Centre and its AI Medical Research Hub here marks an important step in Sarawak’s efforts to address its longstanding shortage of medical professionals, said Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. The Deputy Premier said the collaboration with the top Chinese institution forms part of the state’s strategy to strengthen its medical training pipeline, including plans for a medical school that could help produce some of the 2,500 doctors needed in Sarawak and across Malaysia. “That is why this Fudan University research hub is a good beginning. Hopefully, with the medical school helping some of the 2,500 doctors, it will contribute to easing the shortage of doctors in Sarawak and Malaysia,” he said at the launching of the Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) Summit 2025 here. Dr Sim, also State Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said the initiative aligns with Sarawak’s transition from resource-based industries to high-value sectors driven by talent, technology and research. “We do not want to remain an energy basket. We want to become a centre of talent,” he said, adding that Sarawak’s rapid progress in digital and high-tech development had attracted strong international interest. He also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) not only in modern medical practice, but also in advancing research into Borneo’s biodiversity for pharmaceutical and therapeutic development. Dr Sim commended Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd and its chairman Teo Ah Khing for driving the KSC initiative, and emphasised the importance of long-term investment in youth to sustain the state’s talent development agenda. Meanwhile, Teo said the summit marks a turning point for Miri as it moves from its historic role as the birthplace of Malaysia’s oil and gas industry into a future hub for AI, integrative medicine and biomedical innovation. He noted that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Johari Tun Openg approved the KSC plans within six days, underscoring the state government’s commitment to developing new knowledge-based industries. “Kenyalang Smart City is not only a project. It is a blueprint for future cities in Sarawak,” he said. Teo, who is KSC Summit 2025 organising chairman, said the Sarawak government’s allocation of a landmark building in central Miri to house the Fudan Centre demonstrated strong and proactive leadership. He also praised the contributions of Fudan University’s Prof Dong Jingcheng, whose global standing in integrative medicine has helped shape the vision for the research hub. The summit also coincided with the 14th International Conference on Traditional and Modern Medicine, which saw participation from medical professionals from Malaysia, China, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore — a development Teo said reflects growing confidence in Miri as a venue for medical thought leadership. “Miri has produced global leaders across many fields. We intend to build on that momentum,” he said. Source
Sarawakians can apply for carbon trading licences online from December
KUCHING: Sarawakians can now participate in carbon trading, with online licence applications opening in December. Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr. Hazland Abang Hipni, said that those with at least 100 hectares of land can apply for a carbon trading licence. He said the eligible land must be privately owned with a grant or be surveyed as Native Customary Rights (NCR) land. “Carbon trading offers a new income source for the people. Licences can be obtained through our ministry. “We also permit smaller land parcels to be combined to meet the 100-hectare requirement, subject to certain conditions. “All relevant information will be available by December. Online applications will open then, with applicable fees and so on,” he said when officiating at the Sarawak Lestari ‘Keterangkuman’ Seminar at Pustaka Sarawak today. In addition to being taxed, Dr. Hazland noted that registered landowners will face restrictions, including a prohibition on tree cutting according to a set cycle. For the first cycle, trees in the licensed area cannot be cut for 30 years. He urged Sarawakians, especially villagers, to engage in this nature-based climate solution. “This is an easy way for people to contribute to climate solutions. Just plant trees. “If global carbon emissions are not addressed, by 2050, the temperature increase will be much higher, causing irreversible damage to the planet. “The 17th Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) – partnership for the goals, is crucial. We all must play our part,” he said.
Integrate ESG principles into economic, industrial policies for business sustainability, says S’wak deputy minister
MIRI (May 28): Integration of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles by the Sarawak government into its economic and industrial policies underscores the emphasis on sustainable development and responsible governance, said Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred). Speaking at the Environmental, Social and Governance Training workshop here today, he said this commitment fosters an environment where businesses can thrive while adhering to high standards of ESG compliance, embedding these principles into the fabric of Sarawak’s industrial and commercial activities. He noted that Sarawak is rapidly becoming a magnet for foreign investors, with notable expansion projects and substantial investments underway in the state, and Sarawak’s journey towards ESG compliance is aligned with the global shift towards sustainability. “We must recognise that our local actions have global implications. By adopting and adhering to ESG principles, Sarawak can set a benchmark for other regions and states, showcasing that economic development and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand,” he said, adding this resonates with Sarawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 roadmap to become a thriving, resilient and sustainable region, emphasising innovation, inclusivity and environmental stewardship. Furthermore, Sarawak’s dedication to sustainable development has attracted global attention, garnering favourable ratings from respected international rating agencies such as Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s Investor Services. These endorsements, he pointed out, validate Sarawak’s strategy to attract high-quality investments and drive large-scale development, all while adhering to ESG principles. In addition, it has implemented robust policies and procedures to ensure transparency, integrity and good governance, with a strong focus on improving the ease of doing business in accordance with ESG principles. One of the steps taken by Mintred is training workshops which serve as a platform to equip industries and stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to implement effective ESG strategies so that businesses remain competitive and sustainable in the global market, he said. He commended the organisers, InvestSarawak, who have been working closely with his ministry, UN Global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei (UNGCMYB) and Alliance Bank for holding this significant event in Miri. He said the support of speakers, participants, business chambers and associations underscored their collective dedication and commitment to this cause. “Your efforts are crucial in driving the ESG agenda forward and ensuring that Sarawak remains at the forefront of sustainable development,” he added.
Miri sets up command centre as partof smart city initiative
Miri, May 29: Miri City is now embarking on the second phase of the Smart City Initiatives which will include the Miri City Command Centre, expansion of Safe Park and Safe City Initiatives and further digitisation of Miri City Council processes and documentation.Unveiling this, Miri City Council (MCC) mayor Adam Yii said Miri City is fortunate that it was selected as the pioneer city for the Smart City Initiatives by Sarawak government on Jan 30, 2020 and a total of 10 smart applications have been successfully implemented under Phase 1 of the Miri Smart City Initiatives so far. He said Miri City presently has a population of about 350,000, and a land size of about 5,200 sq km.“To put the land size in perspective, Miri City is about 7 times the size of Singapore since the land size of Singapore is about 734.3 sq km,” said Yii at the Kenyalang Smart City Summit organised by Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd, the developer of Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) Development. The event attracted over 50 local and international investors from the Middle East and Asia, including the Republic of China, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia with the purpose to learn more about Kenyalang Smart City Development and associated investment opportunities. “Miri City is in dire need of a proper convention centre in order to host bigger events. Therefore, the convention centre included in the Kenyalang Smart City Development Project is much welcomed,” said Yii.For the foreign guests, Yii who is also Pujut assemblyman, gave a short historical account of Miri City.Miri City came to existence basically when oil was found, developed and produced in 1910 by Shell with the first well drilled on top of the Canada Hill. The hill was named Canada Hill by the local people, because the first drillers working there were Canadians. Due to its historical significance, the Grand Old Lady and a petroleum museum were erected on the site. Miri from then on developed from a small fishing village to what it is now, and has been commonly known as the “oil town”. “Interestingly, Shell as an oil company also has its origin in Miri. Shell was a trading company before it became an oil company,” said Yii. During WWII, the first point of landing by the Imperial Japanese Army on the island of Borneo was also in Miri where the objective was to take over the oilfields of Miri. “And due to the presence of a sizable community of expatriates and their families working and living in Miri since the discovery of oil, Miri has a much more cosmopolitan character as compared to other places in Sarawak,” said Yii. Also present were Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy MTCP Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting and other dignitaries. – DayakDaily
Abang Johari: New Kuching International Airport modelled after Hamad International Airport in Qatar
KUCHING, June 7 — The new Kuching International Airport (KIA) will be modelled on the Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, Premier Minister Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said here today. He said the state government is engaging consultants, who may be involved in the airport construction in Doha, to develop the planning for the construction of the new KIA. “The planning is expected to be completed within three years, and after which construction work will begin and how much the estimated costs will be known,” he told reporters. He was asked after witnessing the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Innocement Sdn Bhd and PMW Industries Sdn Bhd on collaboration for the development of a manufacturing facility for the production of concrete products in Tanjung Manis in Sarikei Division. Abang Johari said the state government proposed building a new international standard airport based on the state’s long-term needs. “We want Kuching to become a hub with the airport that is capable of handling 15 million arrivals a year. “If we look at the development in South-east Asia, what we need is an airport with international standards equipped with the latest facilities including state-of-art information technology,” he added. He stressed the airport will become one of the catalysts to spur the state’s economy, especially in terms of air connectivity that will boost the tourism industry. “What I am saying is that we have two major projects in the pipeline that will expand our economy beyond 2030. “One is an airport and another a deep sea port at Tanjung Embang in western Sarawak,” he said. He said these two are strategic matters in the state government’s effort to make Kuching become a hub, saying that Sarawak is on the western part of Borneo which is along the shipping and flight routes from the east to the west.
Malaysia’s Sarawak seeks billion-dollar gains in global decarbonisation market
Source: Malaysia’s Sarawak seeks billion-dollar gains in global decarbonisation market
