Sarawak launches sustainability blueprint for green economy

The Star

29-05-2025

KUCHING: Sarawak's newly launched sustainability blueprint will serve as a strategic roadmap for the state's transition to a green economy, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
The Sarawak Premier said the blueprint is a pioneering effort by a Malaysian state and added that it was recently finalised by the state Energy and Environmental Sustainability Ministry.
He noted it is built on 10 strategic thrusts, 48 detailed strategies, and 111 actionable plans.
"The Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint 2030 encompasses every facet of our sustainability agenda, integrating green principles into the fabric of our society and economy," he said.
He spoke while launching the blueprint at the Asia Carbon Conference on Thursday (May 29).
Abang Johari said the document outlines Sarawak's commitment to accelerating its renewable energy transition by advancing carbon capture and storage.
It also focuses on enhancing forest and land conservation and promoting green industries and investments.
It aims to build sustainable cities through circular economy practices and develop a future-ready workforce through education, skills, and research.
According to a slide presentation, the blueprint's goals are economic growth and prosperity, environmental stewardship, and a healthy, resilient, and inclusive community.
Its strategic thrusts include energy transition, sustainable agriculture and food security, sustainable mobility, and circular economy.
Other thrusts are sustainable manufacturing, sustainable mining, stewardship of natural assets, sustainable cities, inclusive social equity, and integrated tourism development.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak is finalising a Carbon Plan to facilitate carbon market investments in the state.
He said the plan would offer a detailed implementation framework for carbon trading.
"Central to the Carbon Plan is its focus on establishing a well-regulated and investor-friendly carbon market," he said.
This market will balance supply and demand, incentivising emissions reductions and attracting green investments to Sarawak.
Additionally, Abang Johari said Sarawak is reviewing the statutory fee structure for carbon projects to enhance investor interest.
He said the state is also finalising its carbon levy framework to price carbon emissions accurately and encourage responsible practices.
"Sarawak is committed to aligning our carbon initiatives with international standards," he added.
This ensures that the state's contributions to global climate action are transparent and verifiable.