Samarahan: The Rembus Hydrogen Plant in Samarahan is expected to produce one tonne of hydrogen per day by the first quarter of 2027 to support Sarawak's hydrogen-powered public transportation system, the State Assembly was told today. Sarawak Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni stated that the plant will gradually expand its hydrogen production capacity in phases in the years that follow.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the plant is being developed to support the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), which will utilise hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles and feeder buses. Dr Hazland emphasized that Sarawak's hydrogen development is being implemented in a practical and progressive manner, balancing export readiness with domestic market development, while building local capabilities and creating sustainable long-term value for Sarawak.

During Question Time, Dr Hazland addressed See Chee How (Independent-Batu Lintang) on the current outlook of Sarawak's drive to transform the state into a clean hydrogen energy powerhouse. He affirmed Sarawak's firm commitment to developing a clean hydrogen economy as part of its broader ambition to position the State as a regional clean energy powerhouse.

The state's approach is structured and phased, focusing on strengthening the entire hydrogen value chain from production to midstream processing, domestic utilization, and future export opportunities. Meanwhile, Sarawak is planning to expand renewable energy and reduce coal use. Dr Hazland noted that while coal plays a role in ensuring grid stability and a reliable power supply, Sarawak is taking clear steps to reduce its dependence on coal.

He mentioned that the Balingian Coal-Fired Power Plant, commissioned in 2019, will be the last coal-fired project in Sarawak for the foreseeable future, and plans are underway to progressively retire aging coal plants.