Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian (second left) visiting an exhibition booth at the Sarawak Research and Development Council's research symposium in Kuching. - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak plans to encourage research initiatives looking into lowering the production cost of hydrogen as a source of green energy, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
The Premier said the high cost of production was a key challenge in Sarawak's venture into the hydrogen economy as part of its transition to a low-carbon future.
To address this, he said the Sarawak Research and Development Council (SRDC) would initiate a thematic grant call focusing on renewable energy research with an emphasis on hydrogen production and storage.
"This initiative is not only a step towards lowering production costs but also a commitment to leveraging our local knowledge and resources," he said in a speech delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at SRDC's research symposium here on Wednesday (Nov 6).
Abang Johari said Sarawak was investing in hydrogen production and infrastructure to address local energy needs, besides creating new economic opportunities.
"This commitment to the hydrogen economy underscores Sarawak's role as a leader in renewable energy innovation and our contribution to global sustainability goals," he said.
The Premier also said SRDC plays a pivotal role in fostering research collaboration, facilitating funding and promoting partnerships to ensure that research initiatives align with Sarawak's development priorities.
He cited the vaccine development programme initiated by the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC), a subsidiary of SRDC, as an example.
"As a member of the UK-SEA (Southeast Asia) Vaccine Hub, this programme enables the transfer of technologies and expertise on vaccine development from Britain to SIDC, fostering local capability and enhancing our health security," he said.
Meanwhile, SRDC general manager Dr Peter Morin Nissom said the council funded RM16.6mil worth of projects from 2019 to this year.
He said more than half of the 79 projects had been completed, resulting in 28 journal publications, 14 filings for intellectual property and ongoing training of postgraduate students.
Peter also said construction of the Sarawak Science Centre, a subsidiary of SRDC, was currently at 40% and expected to be completed by December next year.
"The SIDC is now at 6% and set to be completed by late 2026," he added.
