Kuching: Sarawak will establish a State Energy Council by next year to coordinate and align energy sector policies across public and private stakeholders, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg revealed today. The council will be formed following consultations with all relevant parties and will oversee the operations and strategies of energy sector players to ensure alignment with the state's development goals.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the establishment of the council is part of a broader effort under the Sarawak Energy Transition Policy (SET-P). The policy aims to foster cooperation between the public and private sectors to advance together. Premier Abang Johari shared this vision while launching the SET-P, emphasizing the state's commitment to moving forward collaboratively.

Abang Johari highlighted that Sarawak is targeting RM700 billion in investments over the next decade through the SET-P. This ambitious policy is designed to drive low-carbon, sustainable economic growth, focusing on the state's renewable energy potential. He noted that Sarawak is well-positioned to generate renewable energy, attracting strong global interest, especially in its hydroelectric power capabilities.

He further mentioned that the anticipated investments are expected to generate high-quality jobs. To prepare for this, the state plans to offer free tertiary education to develop a skilled workforce ready for the emerging green economy. This initiative is part of Sarawak's strategic roadmap to transform its energy landscape.

SET-P is anchored on seven key pillars: renewable energy, natural gas, energy efficiency, low-carbon mobility, clean hydrogen, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), and alternative energy. The policy aims to address the energy trilemma of ensuring security, affordability, and sustainability while promoting a resilient and inclusive energy future for Sarawak.