KUCHING (Dec 18): Sarawak is set to become the first region in Southeast Asia to operate hydrogen-powered public transport through its Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking at the launch of Cahya Mata Sarawak’s Clinker Line 2 Project, Abang Johari said the initiative reflects Sarawak’s commitment to leading the region in clean energy adoption and low-carbon mobility, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. “God willing, by 2027, Sarawak will be the first in the region to operate hydrogen-powered public transport through our ART system,” he said.
Abang Johari acknowledged that while hydrogen production costs remain high, particularly through current electrolysis methods, technological advancements — including new membrane technology from Japan — are expected to reduce costs significantly. Hydrogen has been internationally recognised as one of the cleanest alternative energy sources and will play a key role in Sarawak’s energy transition, he added, noting that calculated risks and forward-looking policies are essential for progress. He pointed out that the hydrogen initiative forms part of Sarawak’s Post-Covid19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which emphasises sustainable economic growth, renewable energy, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
“Our policies are designed to ensure that Sarawak’s development keeps pace with the new economy, where green and renewable energy will replace fossil fuels,” he said. Abang Johari noted that Sarawak’s leadership in hydrogen complements other sustainability-driven efforts, including low-carbon construction and environmentally friendly infrastructure. He highlighted Sarawak’s strong financial position, which has enabled investment in transformative projects — highways, bridges, and public transport systems — while simultaneously pursuing environmental conservation and carbon reduction. “With a clear strategy, strong governance and the courage to innovate, Sarawak is positioning itself not just to follow global trends, but to lead them,” he said. The hydrogen-powered ART system is expected to be a cornerstone of Sarawak’s future urban mobility network, reinforcing the state’s ambition to become a regional leader in green technology and sustainable development.
On infrastructure, Abang Johari noted that Sarawak has nearly completed its main highway network and continues construction of the coastal road, alongside an aggressive bridge-building programme fully funded by the state. He noted that after several bridge projects were cancelled previously, Sarawak took over and has since completed or is constructing 22 bridges, made possible by the strength of the state’s economy. Major road projects are also underway to improve access to the northern interior, including routes from Miri to Marudi, Long Terawan, Long Panai, Long Lama, and areas near Mulu, with an estimated cost of RM3.2 billion. “Former logging roads are being upgraded into public roads to improve rural access and spur agricultural and settlement development,” he said. In parallel, the state is upgrading rural water and electricity supply under programmes such as the Sarawak Alternative Water Supply (Sawas) and Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (Sares), with additional allocations to meet growing demand. “From now until 2030, we will be very busy delivering projects for the rural people. Whatever revenue we generate, we return it to the people through positive development,” said Abang Johari.
