SYDNEY: The Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030) is driving Sarawak to emerge as a green economic powerhouse in the region.
The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, stated that PCDS 2030 has established a solid foundation for a resilient and sustainable economy, balancing economic growth with environmental preservation.
He said that PCDS 2030 emphasises the need for various economies to be guided by data, innovation, inclusion, and sustainability, ensuring that Sarawak’s progress remains visionary and responsible.
"Sarawak is at a critical juncture where we must decouple the growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from energy consumption and unsustainable sources.
“This shift will not happen on its own. Sarawak needs to embrace the green economy to drive this change.”
He made this statement while delivering the keynote address at the Australia-ASEAN Business Forum 2024, titled 'The Powerhouse of Green Economy in ASEAN,' held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney on Thursday.
Explaining further, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari said that the Sarawak Green Economy Policy focuses on three main aims, one of which is protecting Sarawak's biodiversity and unique natural resources, with a commitment to complete environmental integrity.
Secondly, Sarawak aims to improve the quality of life for all its citizens while respecting and preserving their rich indigenous cultures.
Sarawak is also committed to fostering inclusive growth through the use of sustainable resources and ensuring that economic growth does not lead to overexploitation of resources and high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, he explained.
“Sarawak’s Green Economy Policy is not the end goal but a transformative journey.
“It brings together various aspects such as policy, governance, and development to drive real change,” he added.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari further stated that Sarawak’s transition to a green economy heavily relies on sustainable energy.
He said that Sarawak has set a goal to achieve 10 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy, known as the ‘102030’ target, by 2030.
“We are actively exploring innovative methods to harness energy through hydro power, solar, biomass, sustainable fuels, and hydrogen,” he added.
The Australia-ASEAN Business Forum, held from 29 to 30 August, brought together various speakers to share their expertise on a range of issues, including agriculture, food security, green and renewable energy, innovation, and digital transformation.
Accompanying the Premier of Sarawak were Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Sarawak Financial Secretary Dato Sri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar, and the Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman. Earlier, the Premier of Sarawak and the Sarawak government delegation held a meeting with Australia’s Deputy Minister for Trade and Manufacturing, Senator Tim Ayres, and an Australian delegation.- UKASnews
