SINGAPORE: Malaysia's state of Sarawak is set to launch its annual sustainability reporting mechanism next year to track public sector contributions to the state's green initiatives, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In his keynote address at the APPEC 2024 conference, an influential forum for the global energy industry held in Singapore on Monday, Abang Johari said the initiative – in addition to the state's anti-climate change law which came into force on March 1 – will help build trust with citizens and international partners.
"By integrating climate considerations into every decision, Sarawak leads by example with strict regulations and transparent reporting, reinforcing our commitment to a sustainable future.
"These initiatives demonstrate that while embracing sustainable development, we remain focused on setting ambitious emission targets and enforcing regulations to ensure a resilient future," he said.
The anti-climate change law or Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases) Ordinance passed on Nov 20 last year, mandates that businesses in the energy and oil and gas sectors submit their greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reports to ensure sector-wide accountability.
Abang Johari said Sarawak's Economic Planning Unit has been tasked for the initiative.
To tackle climate crisis, Abang Johari – while getting his point across – said policies that reward sustainable practices must be implemented, and investments should be made towards projects that benefit both the people and environment.
Stressing that Sarawak is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy, he said Sarawak has invested in green technologies, expanding into hydropower and solar energy, as well as diversify its energy mix with renewables.
Abang Johari said Sarawak's goal is to double its electricity capacity to 10GW by 2030 and reach 15GW by 2035, positioning Sarawak as a Green Energy Powerhouse in Asean.
In addition, to position Sarawak as a global leader in the green hydrogen market, extending beyond Asean and Asia Pacific, the state is also spearheading the development of a green hydrogen economy as a clean alternative to fossil fuels.
He said Sarawak is also continuously advancing its clean energy strategy by exploring technologies like hybrid solar-wind and solar-hydro projects that will complement its hydropower expansion and pivotal in reducing carbon emissions across various sectors.
"Together with our renewable energy initiatives, these hybrid solutions underscore our unwavering commitment to sustainable energy development and a low-carbon future," he said.
Sarawak is also exploring alternative energy sources, including converting coal plants to biomass and developing wave energy as part of its energy mix.
The Sarawak Methanol Complex, launched in July, marked the state's entry as a leading global Methanol producer with an annual capacity of 1.75 million metric tonnes.
Abang Johari is in Singapore for a four-day official working visit to the island republic ending Tuesday.