KUALA LUMPUR: The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg has once again made a mark in Southeast Asia after being honoured with The Great ASEAN Distinguished Leadership Excellence Award at a prestigious hotel here, on Thursday night.

This prestigious award, presented by the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific and the ASEAN Economic Club, was presented to the Sarawak Premier by Chairman of the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, Tan Sri Majid Khan, and President of the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, Tan Sri Michael Yeoh.

The evening, filled with historic and special moments, was dedicated to celebrating and recognising extraordinary individuals from the ASEAN region who have contributed to advancing regional economic growth and prosperity.

In his speech at The Great ASEAN Entrepreneur Awards 2024 ceremony, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari expressed his honour in receiving this prestigious award, and being among extraordinary individuals.

In reflecting the recognition of this award, he noted that the Sarawak government’s current efforts are focused on transforming the state's economy towards renewable energy.

"I am confident that in any economic activity, renewable energy is a significant and important foundation.

"Sarawak has long been known for its abundant renewable energy resources with a commitment to developing 10 gigawatts (GW) of clean energy comprising hydro and gas turbine by the year 2030," he said.

Also present were Sarawak State Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, along with other distinguished guests.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari added, the Sarawak government is ready to collaborate with regional countries in developing the ASEAN Energy Grid across the seabed as part of efforts to supply electricity across Southeast Asia.

Furthermore, the Sarawak Premier said Bintulu is set to become Sarawak’s renewable energy hub as partners from Korea and Japan have now entered the Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) stage to produce green hydrogen by 2027.

"Sarawak will export hydrogen back to both countries, and part of it will be used domestically with a combined capacity of 240,000 tonnes per year," he stated.

The award ceremony also recognised 18 exceptional entrepreneurs across various categories, celebrating their significant achievements and contributions to corporate social responsibility (CSR).

This includes recognising those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, made significant contributions in their respective fields, and had a positive impact on their community or industry.

The criteria for receiving this award are proven leadership, a track record of success, contributions to the ASEAN community, and adherence to sustainable development principles.

This award also aims to inspire others in the region to achieve excellence and contribute to ASEAN's goals of peace, prosperity, and unity. -UKASnews