Madius calls for stronger ASEAN-China energy ties to boost green future
KOTA KINABALU (June 9): Sabah Electricity chairman Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau called for deeper ASEAN–China energy cooperation to build a green and interconnected energy future.
Madius, who is also a former Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah, made the call while attending the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Industry Cooperation Conference in Hefei, Anhui, China on June 3 to 5
Madius was invited as a keynote speaker and forum guest by Sabah China Chamber of Commerce president Datuk Frankie Liew, and Tan Siew Ling, Vice President and Chairperson of the Women Entrepreneurs Committee.
When speaking about regional energy cooperation, he noted that ASEAN is currently at a critical juncture in its energy transition, and it is essential to strike a balance between power reliability, affordability and sustainability.
He emphasized that China, as a global leader in energy technology and industrial development, can play a positive role in ASEAN's green development through its support in technology, investment and expertise.
'To achieve these goals, regional cooperation is vital. Collaborating with global leaders like China and engaging in exchanges of technology, investment and knowledge will accelerate our development efforts,' said Madius.
He specifically highlighted Malaysia's proactive development in solar photovoltaic (PV) energy and its close collaboration with ASEAN countries in renewable energy as a reflection of its commitment to a sustainable and integrated regional energy future.
He also stressed that through strategic cooperation, technological innovation, band policy leadership, Malaysia is playing a key role in driving the region's energy transition.
'China's breakthroughs in photovoltaic module manufacturing are poised to play a crucial role in the global renewable energy transformation,' he added.
Madius praised the organization of the conference and extended his congratulations on the establishment of the China–ASEAN Photovoltaic Industry Cooperation Committee and the China–ASEAN New Energy Vehicle Industry Cooperation Committee. He expressed hope that these two mechanisms would effectively promote deep cooperation in key green sectors such as photovoltaics and new energy vehicles within the region.
During the meeting, Madius introduced Sabah Electricity to delegates from various countries. The company is 83% owned by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), 17% by the Sabah State Government, while Malaysia's Ministry of Finance holds a 1% 'golden share.'
He noted that Sabah, located in East Malaysia, faces challenges in power grid infrastructure due to its unique geographical setting, but also holds great potential for driving green energy transformation.
'As the main utility company serving Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan, Sabah Electricity currently serves over 700,000 customers. Beyond its power supply mission, it is also committed to promoting energy diversification and improving efficiency to accelerate the shift towards a sustainable energy structure, contributing to Malaysia's national vision of carbon neutrality by 2050.'
He concluded by wishing the conference great success and expressed his hopes to work hand in hand with all parties to usher in a new phase of regional energy cooperation.
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