KUCHING: Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) is to power the Sarawak Data Centre Park (SDCP) project, the state’s first energy-efficient tier four data centre hub to be located here.
Wholly-owned subsidiary Syarikat Sesco Bhd has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Netrunner Sdn Bhd on the sale and purchase of electricity for the project.
Netrunner is a special-purpose vehicle focused on attracting investments for a state-of-the-art data centre park in Sarawak and will lead the technical development and design of the SDCP.
Netrunner has also entered into a MoU with AIZO Bhd (formerly Minetech Resources Bhd) to explore the joint development of the SDCP.
Netrunner directors and shareholders Ahmad Rahizal Datuk Ahmad Rasidi and Emma Yazmeen Yip Mohd Jeffrey Yip are also executive directors of AIZO.
The two MoUs were among several others signed and witnessed by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the 7th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak 2024 here last week.
Data centre tiers are a standardised ranking system that indicates the reliability of data centre infrastructure.
This classification ranks from one to four, with one being the worst and four the best-performing level. A data centre receives this international ranking from an independent organisation, Uptime Institute.
Netrunner director Ronnie Lim said the set up of the proposed tier four data centre hub, which is targetted for completion in 2030, will enhance Sarawak’s reputation as a forward-thinking, digitally advanced region.
The SDCP is set to establish a new standard for data centre operations in Malaysia by addressing the increasing demand for advanced data storage and processing capabilities in the region.
The project aims to support local economic development while incorporating efficient technologies and sustainable practices in line with Sarawak’s commitment to green energy and responsible development.
Lim said the project will contribute to job creation, foster technological innovation and promote eco-friendly development initiatives.
“It embodies a vision where digital infrastructure growth harmonises with environmental stewardship and social responsibility, paving the way for a more sustainable future in Sarawak.”
The data centre project will provide infrastructure that supports both local enterprises and international clients, further establishing Sarawak as a hub for digital innovation.
SEB group chief executive officer Datuk Sharbini Suhaili said the state-owned utility firm’s collaboration with Netrunner demonstrates its dedication to meeting the growing digital infrastructure needs of the region with reliable energy.
“As we work towards becoming a digital utility, collaborations like these align with our vision of building a stable energy future while supporting Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming a leader in the digital economy,” he added.
AIZO executive chairman Datuk Abang Abdillah Izzarim said the MoU with Netrunner represents AIZO’s maiden venture into the data centre industry.
“This strategic move marks a key step in the company’s diversification into digital infrastructure, a rapidly growing sector that represents significant growth opportunities.
“By entering the data centre market, AIZO is positioning itself to meet the rising demand for secure and efficient data management solutions while reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainable development in Sarawak.
“This MoU is a significant milestone for all parties involved and we are excited to contribute to Sarawak’s advancement into the digital age.
“Working alongside the Sarawak government and Netrunner, we believe the data centre park will become a cornerstone for the region’s digital infrastructure,” added Abang Abdillah, also the son of the Sarawak Premier.
When opening the conference, Abang Johari said Sarawak had launched two major initiatives to advance its digital agenda – the Sarawak Technology and Innovation Sandbox (STIS) and Sarawak Digital Residency Programme (SDRP).
He said the STIS, which is developed in partnership with the National Technology and Innovation Sandbox, Sarawak Digital Economy Corp, Startup Borneo and Tegas, aims to facilitate the state transition to a knowledge-based economy.
The STIS is expected to drive innovation in agritech, smart cities and cultural industries, positioning Sarawak as a food security hub and supporting the Sarawak Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030.
The SDRP, said Abang Johari, is a bold initiative aimed at attracting professionals, remote workers, foreign entrepreneurs and investors to Sarawak.
“With flexible terms, we are positioning Sarawak as an inclusive digital hub that welcomes global talent. Our first initiative under this programme – De Rantau Sarawak – will open for applications early next year in collaboration with the Malaysian Digital Economy Corp, further solidifying Malaysia’s status as a top destination for digital nomads in South-East Asia,” he added.
By JACK WONG
