Sarawak: Sarawak will channel its new free tertiary education initiative towards strengthening human capital in high-value sectors such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), renewable energy, and environmental technology, said its Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. He explained that the scheme, set to be implemented next year, is part of the state's long-term strategy to equip Sarawakians with the technical knowledge and skills necessary to lead its transition towards a sustainable and low-carbon economy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak's natural capital, with 62 per cent forest coverage, as a significant asset. By combining this natural wealth with trained human capital, he envisions Sarawak becoming a global player. "We have taken a bold decision to act for future generations. We also need technocrats, people who are well-versed in science, people who can contribute to how we manage this transition," he stated during his speech at the Accelerating Climate Action in Sarawak: An Open Day for the Sarawak Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan programme.
Abang Johari elaborated that the free education initiative aims to produce a new generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists to support Sarawak's expanding green sectors, including its hydrogen economy, carbon management, and CCUS projects. He emphasized that the policy underscores the state government's commitment to fostering a knowledge-driven economy that can innovate solutions for global environmental challenges and create sustainable opportunities for future generations.
The Accelerating Climate Action in Sarawak programme served as a platform for participants to explore and provide feedback on the state's decarbonisation pathway and carbon market mechanisms, which will shape Sarawak's future. It also included workshops on sustainability reporting and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, offering opportunities for industry and policy leaders to exchange ideas and best practices to drive measurable climate action and long-term value.