Sarawak Showcases Global Clean Energy Leadership At IEW 2025

KUCHING, July 16 (Bernama) -- Sarawak inaugurated the sixth International Energy Week (IEW) 2025 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), reaffirming its pivotal role as a global leader in clean energy innovation amidst the worldwide shift towards sustainable energy.

Held under the theme “From Sarawak to the World: Journey to Clean Energy Leadership”, IEW 2025 showcased the state’s ambitious drive to spearhead the energy transition across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

In a statement today, Informa Markets Malaysia stated that the prestigious event was officially opened by the Premier of Sarawak, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, yesterday.

Among the distinguished guests joining him were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, and Sarawak Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, who is also the IEW 2025 organising chairman.

In his keynote address, Abang Johari reaffirmed Sarawak’s unwavering commitment to clean energy.

“By harnessing our abundant natural resources and embracing innovation, we aim to reduce carbon emissions and build a sustainable future. Our goal is to meet energy demands without compromising the environment for future generations,” he said.

The premier also emphasised the critical importance of human capital development in propelling the clean energy transition.

“We need a skilled workforce in this space. This is the platform to produce technologists -- not just for energy, but also for emerging industries like aerospace,” he said, noting the broader economic impact of investing in skilled talent.

IEW 2025 attracted over 400 companies and brands from 25 countries, showcasing cutting-edge technologies in renewables, hydrogen, smart grids, energy efficiency, carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) and green infrastructure.

With more than 100 exhibition booths, the event was projected to generate US$2.5 million (US$1=RM4.24) in immediate business opportunities, fostering significant economic growth and collaboration.

Sarawak’s commitment to clean energy is reflected in its current energy mix, with over 70 per cent of its electricity generated from renewable sources, mainly hydropower.

Major projects such as the Baleh Dam and the Batang Ai floating solar plant, coupled with expanding cross-border grid connectivity with Kalimantan, Brunei, and soon, Singapore, significantly enhance Sarawak’s contribution to the ASEAN Power Grid. These developments have rightfully earned Sarawak the title of the “Battery of ASEAN”.

Beyond hydropower, the state is making substantial strides in advancing its hydrogen economy, including Southeast Asia’s first integrated hydrogen production and refuelling facility.

Strategic partnerships with Japan and South Korea are facilitating vital technology transfer and market expansion, positioning Sarawak at the forefront of the hydrogen revolution.

In parallel, Sarawak is scaling up efforts in CCUS, biomass (including innovative solutions like Napier grass), and waste-to-energy initiatives, further diversifying its clean energy portfolio and reinforcing its dedication to a sustainable future.

To promote an inclusive energy transition, Sarawak is supporting local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the oil and gas services and equipment (OGSE) sector, which makes up 85 per cent of the industry.

This support includes promoting access to financing, upskilling programmes, and the adoption of green technologies, ensuring that the benefits of the energy transition are widely shared across the local economy.

IEW 2025 is made possible through the invaluable support of its Platinum, Gold, and Silver sponsors, and key partners such as Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), which continues to champion impactful and sustainable events.

Official airline and e-hailing partners are also onboard, enhancing the experience for both domestic and international participants.

Through the IEW 2025, Sarawak has conveyed a clear and powerful message to the world: “The energy transition is our defining challenge, and Sarawak is ready to take the lead. The state welcomes global collaboration in creating a cleaner, greener, and more inclusive energy future for everyone.”

-- BERNAMA