FUKUSHIMA, JAPAN: A high-level Sarawak delegation concluded their visit to Japan with a productive engagement at the Soma IHI Green Energy Centre in Fukushima on Thursday, as part of efforts to explore renewable energy and circular economy partnerships.

Led by Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development), Dato Sri Dr. Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, the visit aimed to advance collaborations in line with Sarawak’s commitment to sustainability and green energy development.

According to an official statement, the delegation gained valuable insights into IHI Corporation's cutting-edge projects, which include hydrogen technology, smart community business models, aquaponics, and e-methane development.

These innovations are seen as key drivers of sustainable development in Sarawak's future energy landscape.

"A key highlight of the discussions was the potential collaboration on the Electro Sustainable Aviation Fuel (eSAF) project, which aligns with Sarawak’s broader green energy initiatives," the statement said, underlining the significance of the engagement.

Dato Sri Dr. Muhammad described the visit as both meaningful and productive, noting that it laid the foundation for strategic partnerships to support the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg's vision for a sustainable, green energy future.

"This engagement not only strengthened ties with Japan but also opened doors for Sarawak to leverage innovative technologies for its renewable energy agenda," he added.

The visit was the final stop for the Sarawak delegation, wrapping up a series of strategic meetings aimed at enhancing international cooperation in clean energy, climate action, and sustainability initiatives.

Among the key members of the delegation were Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datu Abg Ahmad Abg Morni, Director of Forest Department Sarawak, Datu Hamden Mohammad, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Biodiversity Centre, Dato Dr. Charlie Yeo and Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Petchem, Dato’ Mohammad Ibrahim. -UKASnews