Sarawak is accelerating its position as a regional leader in clean energy, a commitment strongly underscored during the 6th International Energy Week (IEW) 2025, held from July 15 to 17 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). With the theme “From Sarawak to the World: Journey to Clean Energy Leadership,” the event affirmed the state’s ambition not just to participate in the global energy transition, but to lead it.
Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak, officiated the prestigious event alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Yusof, and Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni.
In his keynote address, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari reaffirmed Sarawak’s unwavering commitment to clean energy innovation. “By harnessing our abundant natural resources and embracing technology, we aim to reduce carbon emissions and build a sustainable energy future,” he said. He further stressed the need to develop skilled human capital, especially in energy and future-facing sectors like aerospace.
IEW 2025 brought together over 400 companies and brands from 25 countries, featuring more than 200 booths and attracting over 6,500 attendees. The event was expected to unlock USD 2.5 million (RM11.8 million) in immediate business opportunities and facilitate long-term strategic investments. Exhibits included cutting-edge technologies in renewable energy, hydrogen, smart grids, energy efficiency, carbon capture and storage (CCUS), and green infrastructure.
Sarawak’s clean energy credentials are already well-established. As of 2025, over 70% of Sarawak’s electricity generation comes from renewable sources, primarily large-scale hydropower from facilities such as the Bakun, Murum, and Baleh Dams. The state is also investing in floating solar technology, including the Batang Ai floating solar farm, and expanding cross-border power grid connections to Kalimantan, Brunei, and soon, Singapore – solidifying Sarawak’s growing role as the “Battery of ASEAN.”
Hydrogen is another key pillar in Sarawak’s energy strategy. The state is home to Southeast Asia’s first integrated hydrogen production and refuelling facility, with plans underway to supply clean hydrogen to global markets. Strategic partnerships with Japan and South Korea are driving technology transfer and market expansion.
Further diversifying its clean energy mix, Sarawak is investing in biomass solutions, such as those using Napier grass, waste-to-energy projects, and CCUS initiatives. These efforts align with Malaysia’s broader climate commitments and support Sarawak’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.
The state is also empowering local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the oil and gas services and equipment (OGSE) sector, which makes up 85% of Sarawak’s energy industry. Initiatives include access to financing, upskilling programmes, and encouraging the adoption of green technologies to ensure inclusivity in the energy transition.
A notable participant at IEW 2025 was Borneo Oil and Gas Supply Base (BOGSB), Sarawak’s only dedicated supply base. The company showcased its capabilities in offshore logistics and energy support infrastructure, future affirming its strategic role in Sarawak’s energy future.
Through IEW 2025, Sarawak has delivered a clear and powerful message: it is ready to lead the energy transition in Southeast Asia. By combining natural resource wealth, forward looking policies, international collaboration, and strong local engagement, Sarawak is charting a bold path as a sustainable energy supplier for the region and the world.
