KUCHING: Vendors have been recognised as a key driving force behind Sarawak Energy’s achievements in implementing renewable energy initiatives across the state.

Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, said that the corporation’s success as a leader in the sustainable energy sector would not have been possible without the dedication of its vendors, contractors, consultants, service providers, and suppliers—many of whom have consistently delivered projects under challenging conditions.

“Your work has enabled us to bring electricity to longhouses and remote villages, enhance grid reliability in our growing urban centres, and support Sarawak’s aspiration to become a renewable energy exporter,” he stated.

He said this during the Sarawak Energy Vendor and Contractor Awards Ceremony held here on Friday.

Dato Sri Julaihi added that Sarawak Energy’s electronic procurement system, SEPRO, continues to be a vital platform that attracts and registers credible vendors.

“As of 2024, a total of 5,335 vendors are registered with SEPRO, comprising 4,325 contractors, 484 consultants, and 2,385 suppliers,” he explained.

He also welcomed the increasing participation of local and Bumiputera vendors within Sarawak Energy’s supply chain and project implementation, encouraging them to continue seizing opportunities, particularly in renewable energy, digital innovation, and infrastructure development.

The ceremony was graced by the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, who presented awards to 15 vendors across six categories.

These included Best Work Performance, Best Supplier, Best Service Provider, Best Local Consultant, Best International Consultant, and Best Bumiputera Partner.

Under the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Excellence Awards category, one CECA project partner and three contractors under the CTP programme were honoured with Gold Awards for their outstanding HSE performance.

Also present at the event were Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Prof. Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Deputy Minister for Utility (Sarawak Energy and Petros), Dato Ibrahim Baki, Sarawak Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and Sarawak Energy Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Sharbini Suhaili. -UKASnews