KUCHING (Oct 12): Sarawak is advancing its clean-energy future through the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), with the pilot deployment of hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) this year, followed by full rollout from next year.

Tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the pilot route will operate from the Rembus Depot in Samarahan to Northbank in Stutong, supported by hydrogen feeder buses and the hydrogen production plant at the Rembus Depot.

“Under the Alternative Funding initiative, RM988 million is allocated next year for the continued development of KUTS.

“In addition, this Budget provides RM124 million to Sarawak Metro (Sdn Bhd) to support operations, including the pilot phase, and to ensure full operational readiness for commercial service,” he said in the august House on Monday.

To solidify Sarawak’s position as a regional hub in clean energy, Abang Johari said the state government will initiate a study towards the formulation of a more comprehensive regulatory framework and laws for Sarawak Hydrogen Development.

This legal framework will govern the development of Sarawak’s hydrogen industry, including production, distribution, utilisation, standards, safety, and commercial export.

By providing legislative clarity and regulatory certainty, this landmark framework will enhance investors’ confidence, facilitate industry development and accelerate the growth of Sarawak’s hydrogen economy, in line with the state’s net-zero aspirations, he said.

As Sarawak advances into the global semiconductor value chain with the implementation of Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, he said the state is now moving from design and research and development (R&D) into full commercialisation of locally developed chips.

This roadmap, he said, will help to attract billions in investment, create thousands of high-skilled jobs, and position Sarawak as a regional hub for advanced technology within the next 10 years.

Under this budget, RM15 million is allocated to support SMD Semiconductor’s operations, while RM8.5 million is dedicated to accelerating talent development through industry-based programmes and collaborations with fabrication facilities.

“Through partnerships with Centexs and global leaders such as Melexis, Synopsys, and Siemens, high-level certifications in integrated circuit testing and design are now offered to produce industry-ready graduates to cater for the need of the semiconductor industry,” he added.

Credits: Lim How Pim, The Borneo Post 2026