Sarawak Embraces Hydrogen Economy Amidst Controversy
Key Ideas
- Sarawak plans to develop a hydrogen economy, utilizing its rich resources to produce hydrogen for various applications, including public transport.
- The Sarawak Premier highlighted the advantage of having access to hydrogen feedstock from methane and water reservoirs, reducing dependency on costly imports.
- Despite concerns raised by assemblyman Violet Yong regarding previous global failures and safety risks associated with hydrogen buses, the government remains committed to implementing sustainable and cost-effective solutions for the long-term benefit of Sarawak.
- The development of a hydrogen roadmap up to 2050 demonstrates Sarawak's vision for embracing innovative technologies and fostering economic growth in a sustainable manner.
In Kuching, Sarawak, Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, the Sarawak Premier, announced the state's intention to push forward with the development of a hydrogen economy, with specific plans to incorporate hydrogen as a fuel for public transport. The Premier emphasized that Sarawak possesses a natural advantage in this endeavor due to its abundant hydrogen feedstock derived from methane and water reservoirs. This indigenous resource availability positions Sarawak to potentially mitigate the high costs associated with importing hydrogen. Despite concerns raised by DAP's Pending assemblyman Violet Yong regarding past failures and safety risks linked to hydrogen buses globally, including incidents of explosions, the Sarawak government remains steadfast in its commitment to pursuing sustainable and cost-effective solutions. The call for caution and vigilance by Yong underscores the importance of ensuring that public funds are wisely invested in initiatives that provide long-term benefits for Sarawak. The government's focus on implementing a hydrogen roadmap extending to 2050 reflects a strategic vision aimed at leveraging innovative technologies and sustainable practices to drive economic development in the region.