Sarawak’s growing reputation as a regional renewable energy (RE) hub has attracted considerable interest from international investors, particularly from Japan, according to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
He said investors are drawn to the state’s diverse renewable energy capabilities, which include hydro, solar, biomass, natural gas and hydrogen. While interest is evident, he noted that cost estimates and investment potential are still under evaluation.
“There are investors, but we do not yet know the cost. A study must be conducted. What I can say is that there is strong confidence and interest in investing towards renewable energy production,” he said during a press conference after inaugurating the Yamada International Renewable Energy Investment Forum.
Abang Johari said the state government’s role is to enable and facilitate such investments, positioning renewable energy as a foundation for Sarawak’s transition towards a green and modern economy. He emphasised that Sarawak’s natural resources place it in a strong position to meet future energy demands, while technology partnerships remain crucial.
“We have the resources, but we need the technology providers. I hope this forum will explore opportunities to integrate technology with our capabilities to produce renewable energy at affordable costs, and to share it, at least within Asean,” he added.
The premier also highlighted Sarawak’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability, noting that it is the first state in Malaysia to enact legislation on waste management following the recent passing of the Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill 2025.
“This is how the Sarawak government operates, where waste can be a resource and a driver of economic progress,” he said. When asked about investment prospects in waste-to-energy projects under the new law, he said the process would follow the enactment.
The forum was attended by major corporations such as Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Toho Gas, Sojitz Corporation, Tokyo Power Technology Co Ltd, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation and Dans Energy (India).
Yamada Consulting & Spire Managing Director (Asean and India), Go Sakano, said this was the company’s first forum of its kind, adding that Sarawak’s advancement has been increasingly recognised.
“We are here today because Sarawak has transformed from a relatively unknown location to an emerging RE player in the region,” he said.
In his speech titled ‘Can Hornbills Live on Mount Fuji?’, Sakano expressed the company’s ambition to foster deeper collaboration within the renewable energy supply chain.
“We aim to work closely with the Sarawak government and local SMEs to be part of the state’s journey as a regional renewable energy player. Just like the hornbill symbolises Sarawak, its natural resources are a gift to be harnessed and protected,” he said.
