Bintulu’s Power Capacity To Hit 1gw By 2035 To Drive Industrial Growth - Abang Johari

KUCHING, July 23 (Bernama) -- Sarawak is set to develop two gas-fired power plants, with a capacity of 500 megawatts each, which will increase Bintulu’s total power generation capacity to one gigawatt by 2035.

Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said that the initiative is aimed not only at meeting the needs of the local population, but also at fulfilling the demands of investors, particularly in the rapidly growing industrial and green technology sectors in Bintulu.

“The comprehensive development plan also includes the construction of an international school in Bintulu, to attract professional workers and foreign investors to reside and settle here,” he said, during the opening of a hotel in Bintulu, here, today.

Abang Johari, recalling Bintulu’s development history, said that it began with the discovery of natural gas and subsequent investments in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, which spurred the construction of ports and other essential facilities, such as hotels and accommodation for industry players.

He noted that this investment-driven development model has transformed Bintulu into a new growth hub, encompassing not only the Kidurong area, but also extending to Samalaju.

“This rapid development necessitates the provision of comfortable facilities, including international-class hotels, to meet the needs of tourists, delegations and investors.

“To further support Bintulu’s economic growth, a high-tech autonomous rail transit (ART) system, powered by hydrogen, will be implemented under the 13th Malaysia Plan, connecting three strategic locations - Bintulu, Kidurong and Samalaju,” he said.

He added that Bintulu will be the second city after Kuching to have the ART system, which will enhance accessibility, facilitate movement, and promote sustainable development.

“As I mentioned in Miri recently, Bintulu is now globally recognised as one of the 36 low-carbon industrial clusters in the world. This demonstrates that Bintulu has become a key global focus,” he said.

-- BERNAMA