Sarawak, Malaysia’s largest state, recently set a target to become a significant hydrogen supplier to South Korea, according to Deputy Premier Sim Kui Hian.
Sarawak will supply half of South Korea’s anticipated three million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2027 if it produces 1.5 million tonnes annually. As Sarawak’s commitment to greening its energy sector is highlighted by this ambitious project, it fits within the global shift towards renewable energy sources.
Sim says Sarawak is already taking tangible steps towards its green vision, whereas other nations have set targets. This green initiative goes beyond hydrogen production, as the government leverages its natural and geographical resources.
In the last century, Sarawak’s 1,500 oil wells have been depleted. Instead of lying dormant, the government plans to turn them into carbon capture and storage facilities. The state has a potential carbon storage capacity of nine billion tonnes, making it a significant contribution to carbon sequestration worldwide.
The collaboration with Indonesia for the first hydroelectric power plant in Nusantara is another testament to Sarawak’s green energy efforts. The Sarawak government took a 25 per cent equity stake in the US$2.6 billion project, showing its dedication to renewable energy sources.
Hydrogen and hydroelectricity, solar power, and renewable energy are key components of Sarawak’s green agenda. Dr Sim called upon commercial giants to join in. As per Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik Tengku Aziz, Petronas expects to create 200,000 jobs by 2030 in the region. Given Sarawak’s robust carbon capture, hydroelectric power, solar power, and hydrogen production programs, most of these positions are expected to be in Sarawak.
Sarawak’s economic stability has provided an environment conducive to such ambitious projects, as demonstrated by its robust revenue growth and committed leadership. According to Sim, the state’s revenue for the first half of this year is nearly equal to the total revenue for 2022, RM12 billion.
It is not only about building a sustainable future but also instilling the right values in the young generation, providing them with competitiveness and the drive to continue this green revolution. Dr Sim emphasizes the importance of instilling the right values in the younger generation.
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