Malaysia Eyes Sarawak as a Regional Energy Hub, Discussions with Japanese PM Scheduled
Kuala Lumpur, The Gulf Observer: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that discussions to position Malaysia, particularly Sarawak, as a new energy hub in the region will be a key agenda during his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Friday (Jan 10).
Shigeru Ishiba is set to begin his official visit to Malaysia on Friday, during which he will hold discussions with Anwar. The new plan, spearheaded by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, focuses on driving Malaysia’s energy transition efforts.
Speaking at the Malaysia Economic Forum on Thursday (Jan 9), Anwar emphasized the importance of the initiative. “We will discuss several issues on investment and trade and a new plan that is very critical in terms of energy transition, based on the efforts of Sarawak Premier Abang Jo.
“We hope this discussion will chart the course for Malaysia, particularly Sarawak, to become a regional energy hub,” he said.
Present at the forum were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, Abang Johari, and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
Anwar has previously highlighted Sarawak’s significant potential to become a major force in the new energy sector, which would boost foreign investment confidence. Discussions with international partners have underscored Sarawak’s role as a focal point for Malaysia’s energy ambitions.
Sarawak Premier Abang Johari expressed optimism about Sarawak’s capacity to lead in electricity production, citing the state’s proven ability to supply electricity to neighboring countries, including West Kalimantan, Indonesia. He further noted that Sarawak’s expertise in electricity and new energy would propel it to emerge as a significant hub in the ASEAN region.
