KUCHING (Nov 11): Hydrogen can be an important source of revenue for Sarawak, said Dr Simon Sinang Bada (GPS-Tebedu).
He said Sarawak was blessed to have an abundant supply of feedstock such as water, biomass, natural gas, ammonia and other resources such as cheap or low electricity tariffs readily available for hydrogen generation.
“It is a great loss for Sarawak and our nation if these resources are not monetised and converted as revenue for our people in Sarawak to increase the state revenue,” he said when debating the Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill 2024 in the august House today.
He also said hydrogen, as a newly found product, can be utilised domestically and exported to other countries.
“Exporting hydrogen to other countries such as India and Japan will definitely contribute to our much needed foreign exchange and increase our gross domestic product (GDP) value for the betterment of Sarawak’s overall economy,” he added.
On the Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill 2024, he said the Bill introduced by Utility and Telecommunications Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi was timely and appropriate, and should be supported by every member of the august House.
He pointed out the amendments must be done to accommodate the initiative by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in line with the ‘Sarawak First’ slogan.
“The Sarawak government has envisaged that in the year 2050, Sarawak will achieve Net Zero Carbon Emission, promoting a cleaner safer environment together with the world communities to protect the planet that we live in.
“The ambition and inspiration of the Sarawak government of utilising hydrogen as an alternative source of renewable energy is a sustainable solution and an important road map to achieve that Net Zero Carbon Emission,” he said.
He also said the setting up of the Kuching Urban Transport System and implementation of the Autonomous Rail Transit by Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd was a grand development plan by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak government.
“Trackless articulated electric vehicle powered by hydrogen fuel cells will be utilised. In this regard, hydrogen is greatly required. Hence, this amendment to the bill is a strategic move and a must-be supported amendment in this august House,” he said.
