Premier: Climate change a strategic opportunity for Sarawak
KUCHING (July 29): The climate crisis should not be seen as a burden, but rather as a strategic opportunity to build a more sustainable and inclusive future for Sarawak, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He believes the ongoing climate challenge opens doors to green jobs, resilient communities, and the preservation of Sarawak's natural heritage for future generations.
'I see climate change as a chance to create green employment, strengthen community resilience, and safeguard our natural legacy.
'I do not view climate action as a burden,' he said, as quoted in a news report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas).
The remarks were delivered on his behalf by Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, during the International Seminar on Humanity and the Climate Crisis: A Multidimensional Perspective, held here today.
According to Abang Johari, Sarawak has chosen to see climate change not as a barrier to development but as a catalyst for economic and social transformation.
This vision is being realised through the Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint 2030, which outlines an integrated and green development strategy.
Among the key initiatives highlighted are investments in the hydrogen economy to support industrial decarbonisation, the expansion of hydropower as a renewable energy source and the development of carbon-related projects that prioritise forest conservation.
He also emphasised that Sarawak is not waiting to be led in the sustainability agenda. Instead, it aims to be a frontrunner in shaping the region's green energy future.
'With this strategy, Sarawak is not only charting a new path for Malaysia but positioning itself as Asean's battery. We are not waiting to follow and we choose to lead,' he said.
Also present at the seminar were Energy and Environmental Sustainability Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Sarawak Islamic Council President Datuk Misnu Taha, State Mufti Datu Kipli Yassin, Deputy Chairman of the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) Professor Emeritus Dato Dr Mohd Yusof Othman, IKIM Director Associate Professor Dato Dr Mohamed Azam Mohamed Adil and other distinguished guests. Abang Johari Tun Openg climate crisis green economy opportunity
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