Latest news with #PCDS
Borneo Post
16 hours ago
- Science
- Borneo Post
UiTM Sarawak's microalgae cultivation R&D could be source of sustainable biofuel
Dr Hazland (third left) is seen during the meeting with UiTM Sarawak researchers. KUCHING (July 1): Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak has presented its latest research and development (R&D) in microalgae cultivation and its potential as a renewable source for sustainable biofuel to the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability. The initiative supports Sarawak's broader goals under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, particularly in advancing clean energy and a low-carbon economy, said Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni. 'Microalgae, a fast-growing and carbon-absorbing organism, has shown significant promise as a feedstock for biofuel due to its high lipid content, rapid biomass production, and minimal land use,' he said in a statement following a meeting here yesterday. 'UiTM Sarawak's project focuses on developing scalable cultivation systems and exploring integration with industrial CO2 emissions to enhance sustainability and efficiency.' He welcomed the initiative and commended UiTM's proactive role in bio-based research led by UiTM Sarawak deputy rector of Research and Industry Networking Prof Dr Juferi Idris. Dr Hazland expressed optimism that the project could contribute to Sarawak's green energy transition while creating new opportunities in the bioeconomy and environmental sectors. The meeting agreed to strengthen collaboration between the ministry, UiTM, and industry stakeholders to further explore pilot projects, policy support, and commercial pathways for algae-based biofuel in Sarawak. biofuel Dr Hazland Abang Hipni lead microalgae cultivation UiTM Sarawak
The Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Sun
Sarawak boosts solar workforce to meet 2030 renewable energy goals
SIBU: Sarawak must accelerate efforts to produce skilled solar energy workers to support its renewable energy expansion, said Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, the state's Utilities and Telecommunications Minister. The move aligns with Sarawak's goal to increase power generation capacity to 10,000 megawatts (MW) by 2030 and 15,000 MW by 2035, with renewables contributing at least 60%. Julaihi highlighted the state's progress, including the 50 MW floating solar plant at Batang Ai Dam, operational since December last year. 'This facility uses only three per cent of the dam's surface and can expand to Murum and Bakun,' he said after presenting an accreditation certificate to Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS). The minister stressed the rising demand for solar PV technicians and engineers, praising UTS's collaboration with Entera Technology Academy as a strategic step. 'Skilled workers are vital for building Sarawak's renewable energy ecosystem,' he added. The initiative supports Sarawak's Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which prioritises renewables to drive economic growth. 'Sarawak's green energy potential positions it as ASEAN's future energy hub,' Julaihi said.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Borneo Post
Mayor Wee calls for collective action against violence towards women
Wee (centre, front row) poses with others during the programme. KUCHING (June 29): People are urged to change mindsets, reinforce respect in homes and schools, and ensure that every girl and woman feels seen, heard and protected. In making the call, Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said violence against women is not just a women's issue — it is a human issue, a societal issue, and one that requires all of us to speak up, stand together and act with compassion and conviction. 'While we cannot change what has happened, we can take meaningful steps to ensure that no (such) tragedy will happen again,' he said when opening 'Pink Wings Protection Programme', jointly organised by JCI Kuching YMM Sarawak and Saberkas Sentosa at the MBKS Auditorium today. Wee pointed out that the programme represents a step in the right direction — raising awareness, educating communities and empowering individuals to stand up for the safety, dignity and respect for all women. He noted that the message behind the event is both timely and urgent, especially following the recent tragic incident involving a female university student in Cyberjaya, reminding all of the the real and pressing dangers many women face every day. On behalf of MBKS, he extended heartfelt condolences to the victim's family, praying that that they find strength in this difficult time. According to Wee, the programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 on Gender Equality and SDG 10 on Reducing Inequality. He said these are commitments that must translate into real policies, real conversations and real change on the ground, creating a society where women are safe, respected and given equal opportunities to thrive. In Sarawak, he said the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 reflects this vision, ensuring that no one is left behind, especially women. He added that the Sarawak government has made it a priority to transform the lives of women not only through social support but also by opening up new opportunities in education, business, leadership and public service. 'We are seeing this transformation take shape across various sectors. More women are taking on leadership roles, managing businesses, leading community initiatives and contributing actively to the state's progress.' Through PCDS, he noted, programmes have been introduced to support women entrepreneurs, upskill the workforce, provide childcare support and build confidence among young women and girls to step forward as changemakers. At MBKS, Wee said they are committed to making the city safe, inclusive and empowering for everyone. 'We have partnered with community groups, youth organisations and NGOs to implement grassroots programmes that champion women's health, promote safety in public spaces and support youth led empowerment initiatives,' he added. Addressing the young participants, the mayor said their actions, voice and courage matter, expressing hope that the programme would inspire them to advocate for what is right, to create safe spaces and support their friends and communities with kindness and respect. He also thanked the organisers for bringing them together for this cause, uniting them across organisations, generations, and sectors and making a real difference 'Awareness is powerful. When we come together like this — to talk, to learn, and to take action — we are taking real steps to build a safer society. 'A society where no woman feels unsafe walking alone. Where no girl grows up thinking her voice doesn't matter. Where protection and empowerment go hand in hand,' he pointed out. Wee stressed that women deserve not just to be protected, but to be uplifted — to be free to live without fear, to pursue their dreams, and to thrive in a supportive and safe environment. 'Let this not be a one off event, but the start of a continuous journey towards a safer, more equal and more compassionate society for all. Let us continue to spread this message beyond this event. 'Let us be the voice for those who feel voiceless. Let us extend a hand to those in need. And most importantly, let us keep building a Kuching where everyone — regardless of gender — feels safe, respected and empowered,' he said. lead Pink Wings Protection Programme violence wee hong seng women
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
TAK Group eyes stronger Sarawak–Brunei links via Muara Port
Teo (right) presents a token of appreciation to Fazilah. MIRI (June 28): Malaysian developer TAK Group is eyeing to forge closer ties between Sarawak and Brunei, following a high-level meeting with Muara Port Company (MPC) in the sultanate on Friday. TAK Group founder and chairman Teo Ah Khing and MPC chief operating officer Fazilah Yassin met up for a two-hour session, which also involved officials from the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB). In the meeting, Teo highlighted TAK Group's flagship project, Kenyalang Smart City, currently being developed here through its subsidiary, IMASA Dinasti Sdn Bhd. 'This project aligns with Sarawak's Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to create jobs and grow the economy through innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation. 'Kenyalang Smart City is a smart idea built in Miri City. 'As Miri and Brunei economies become more connected, especially in the oil and gas sector, Muara Port will play a bigger role in moving goods and people between both sides,' he said. After the meeting, MPC brought the TAK Group delegation on a guided tour of its port facilities to showcase its operations and explore how future trade and logistics might run through the port. The MPC is Brunei's main port operator. It is a joint venture between Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd and Beibu Gulf Holding (Hong Kong) Co Ltd. The company took over full management of Muara Port in July 2018, and has since played a central role in the sultanate's import-export and logistics systems. The Kenyalang Smart City is an ambitious new township in Miri designed to be sustainable, green and technology-driven. It will feature smart infrastructure like intelligent transport systems, renewable energy, and digital public services. In addition to business and residential areas, the city will include cultural and civic hubs such as the Kenyalang Convention and Exhibition Centre (KCEC), a Performing Arts Centre, and a Cultural Heritage Museum. brunei Muara Port Company TAK Group
Borneo Post
18-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Abd Karim: Youth must be architects of our shared future
Abdul Karim (fifth left), flanked by his deputies, joins other officials for a photo session at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre. KUCHING (June 18): The Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) is more than just a platform for dialogue – it is a movement for co-creation and change, aimed at empowering young people to take ownership of their future, said Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. Speaking at the summit's opening ceremony held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre today, he emphasised that Sarawak's role as host extended beyond logistics and hospitality. 'This platform is designed so that youths will not merely be participants, but active architects of our shared future,' he said. 'We are committed to ensuring the outcomes of this summit influence real policy decisions and spur community-driven action,' he added. Now in its second year, RAYS has convened more than 20 speakers from 13 countries, offering a vibrant space for youth to share diverse perspectives on sustainability, indigenous knowledge, climate action, and youth advocacy. Abdul Karim, who is also State Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister, praised the Sarawak Tourism Board for its leadership in organising the summit and expressed gratitude to all collaborators, volunteers, and partners. He noted that the summit aligns with the state's Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which seeks to drive inclusive economic growth while prioritising environmental sustainability and social equity. Absul Karim also highlighted Sarawak's ongoing efforts in environmental conservation and innovation, including investments in renewable energy, development of biodiversity corridors, and the pursuit of United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) recognition for Sarawak Delta Geopark. 'Here in Sarawak, we are proud to lead by example. Our policies and programmes demonstrate that sustainability and cultural preservation are central to development,' he said. He added that RAYS supports Sarawak's alignment with global frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) regional strategies, by ensuring youth voices are represented in climate and policy dialogues. Urging participants to bring back the insights gained at RAYS to their communities, Abdul Karim stressed the importance of continued engagement. 'We want our youth – whether from Sarawak, Malaysia, or across Asean – to shape, lead, and curate the future they wish to inherit. 'Through platforms like RAYS, we ensure their voices are not only heard but are part of the policymaking process,' he said. He concluded by inviting delegates to experience Sarawak's rich heritage and culinary traditions, reminding them that Kuching has been recognised by Unesco as both a 'Creative City of Gastronomy' and a 'World City of Crafts'. Also present were Deputy State Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Ministers Datuk Sebastian Ting and Datuk Snowdan Lawan, as well as Deputy State Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Ministers Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat and Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah Rainforest Youth Summit RAYS youth
