Kota kinabalu: The Floating Solar Project at Babagon Dam carries significant meaning for Sabah as it reflects the state's commitment and capability in implementing modern, high-impact renewable energy initiatives. Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the floating solar photovoltaic project is the first in Sabah and in Malaysia for the concept of floating solar on potable water, involving solar installations on a water reservoir that also serves as a source of water supply for the local community.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Masidi emphasized the importance of Babagon Dam as a crucial asset for the community and the state, particularly as a water source. He welcomed the project's implementation approach, which prioritizes safety, technical compliance, and good governance. Masidi stated that innovation must go hand in hand with responsibility, highlighting that the project's success should be measured by its long-term safe operations and compliance with established standards.
At the launch ceremony at Babagon Dam, Masidi also inaugurated the 15MWac Solar PV Project in Batu Sapi, Sandakan. As Sabah's Finance Minister, he stressed that the state government, through the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap, emphasizes balanced development to strengthen the economy, enhance public well-being, and ensure environmental sustainability. Both projects are expected to bring continuous benefits to Sabah in technological advancement, green economic growth, and public welfare.
The implementation of these renewable energy projects aligns with the state's aspirations to strengthen clean energy capacity, empower the green industry, create job opportunities, develop local vendors, and gradually reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the energy and industrial sectors. Masidi expressed appreciation for the strategic collaboration between Jetama, the Energy Commission of Sabah, Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd, and Sabah Development Berhad, noting that such partnerships should be emulated to accelerate project implementation, build local technical capabilities, expand the value chain, and deliver broader economic benefits.
Masidi expressed hope that these projects will act as catalysts for more renewable energy initiatives in Sabah, with an emphasis on orderly governance, compliance with existing standard operating procedures, and efficient implementation.