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Sarawak Premier Abang Johari presents budget proposal including Net Zero and Carbon Plan. (Photo: UKAS)
In a bid to accelerate its green economy development, the Malaysian state of Sarawak is planning to establish a Climate Change Center as a key point of engagement for collaboration with businesses.
The government also focuses on carbon credit development, trading and hydrogen energy, which are seen as key priorities in the state's efforts to achieve its net-zero goals. The initiative has already been included in the state government's budget for the coming year.
Sarawak to strengthen collaboration with businesses
On Nov. 11, Sarawak's Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Hazland Abang Hipni, revealed in the state assembly that the government is considering the creation of a Climate Change Center.
This Center will be responsible for coordinating and managing carbon trading and climate mitigation initiatives. " This center would serve as a focal point for engaging private sectors and addressing related interests, queries and opportunities" he stated.
Hazland pointed out that local solar developers have shown interest in nature-based carbon credits, highlighting a shift from traditional industries to greener economic models. To strengthen the state government's commitment to carbon trading and climate action, as well as raise public awareness on these issues, Hazland confirmed that Sarawak will also host the Asia Carbon Conference next year.
Hydrogen, carbon credits take center stage in 2024 budget
On the same day, Sarawak Premier Abang Johari announced the state's budget for 2024, which includes the introduction of a new "Net Zero and Carbon Plan" with an allocation of RM11 million (about $2.4 million) for its implementation.
Abang Johari expressed confidence in the vast investment potential of the hydrogen economy, particularly in cutting-edge technologies such as electrolysers, fuel cells, energy storage, and sustainable transport solutions. He believes Sarawak is at the forefront of the hydrogen economy and will play a critical role in Malaysia's energy transition. As part of this vision, the state plans to establish a Green Hydrogen Center.
In addition, the Sarawak government has earmarked RM1.5 million (about 330 thousand USD) for the development of forest carbon credits, with the goal of selling carbon credits in international markets to generate new revenue for the state.
Sarawak currently has Forest Rules in place as a regulatory framework for issuing permits, managing carbon credits, and monitoring carbon sequestration. Abang Johari noted that the issuance of carbon credit permits is a significant milestone in the development of the carbon market, with four permits already issued, covering more than 130,000 hectares of forest.
Source: The Edge Malaysia、Bernama(1)、(2)
