Latest news with #WestMalaysia-based
Borneo Post
10-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sabah to host Malaysia's first micro algae biomass power plant in Kimanis
Tham showcasing crude algae oil produced during their pilot project. KOTA KINABALU (July 10): A 30-megawatt biomass power plant utilising micro algae as feedstock to produce biofuel and generate green energy is set for development at the Sabah Agro-Industrial Precinct (Saip) in Kimanis. This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Saip Sdn Bhd and West Malaysia-based company CCE Power Holdings Sdn Bhd, held at a hotel here today. The three-year project marks a significant step in advancing renewable energy in Sabah. CCE Power Holdings director Tham Weng Kong said the plant would be the first in Malaysia to use a closed-tank system to cultivate micro algae via heterotrophic technology — a method that does not require sunlight, unlike the photosynthesis-based cultivation systems currently used in Sarawak. Tham explained that micro algae can be harvested within five to seven days, then dried to produce a range of high-value products. The algae's calorific value — or energy content per unit mass — is comparable to that of coal, making it a potent renewable energy source. The plant will feature two main production streams: one for crude algae oil to produce biofuel, bioplastics and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and another for algae biomass to generate power. Following a successful pilot project, the company has filed three patents on their proprietary technology and is moving ahead with construction of the commercial facility. Phase one is expected to be completed by year-end. The project will progress in three stages. Stage one will use 100% palm oil-based biomass, stage two will blend palm biomass with micro algae and stage three will utilise 70% micro algae and 30% palm biomass. 'This is not just a power plant — it's a clean and green energy solution that can help address Sabah's electricity challenges,' Tham said. 'Together with our scientific partners from Japan, we are working to catalyse downstream industries at Saip. This project will create new industries, jobs, and a stronger green economy for the country.' State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurshi Minister and Saip chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, who witnessed the MoU signing, praised the project for its potential to reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional power generation methods. Phoong stressed, however, that the project team must first present feasibility study reports to the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) to prove the concept's viability. The project will initially operate on a 100-acre site, with potential for expansion based on its success. Phoong also clarified that the state government will not commit any land or funding to the initiative. 'This initiative aligns with Malaysia's and Sabah's sustainable development goals,' Phoong said. 'It offers a valuable opportunity for Sabah to embrace innovation, attract high-tech manufacturing, promote technology transfer, and generate skilled job opportunities.'
Daily Express
10-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Warisan rejects one-stop labour centre
Published on: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jun 10, 2025 Text Size: 'For over a decade, we've asked for real Sabah representation. Why is the Human Resource Ministry (Kesuma) afraid of letting us choose our own voice?' Wong asked. Kota Kinabalu: Warisan Vice President Datuk Junz Wong rejected the Federal Government's plan to set up a one-stop labour centre in Sabah, saying what the state truly needs is its own Human Resource Ministry. 'Sabah's labour issues are not due to a 20-year delay as claimed, that's misleading. Most local employers already adhere to peninsula standards. Advertisement 'Full federal control of the Labour Department (JTK) could lead to overly harsh enforcement, harming local businesses,' he warned. He also criticised the lack of Sabah representation in the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC), saying Sabah-based associations had long been sidelined in favour of the West Malaysia-based MEF. 'For over a decade, we've asked for real Sabah representation. Why is the Human Resource Ministry (Kesuma) afraid of letting us choose our own voice?' he asked. He noted Sabah has nearly two million workers but no dedicated state HR Ministry, despite having the highest unemployment and lowest skilled labour rates in Malaysia. Junz questioned the legitimacy of the newly-formed Sabah Labour Advisory Council being co-chaired by both State and Federal representatives. 'If Kesuma is still steering, how is this a Sabah voice?' he asked. Calling for the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to be respected, Wong said labour matters were federalised only with the condition of state consultation, a condition now often ignored. 'Sabah doesn't just want services. We want autonomy, equity and dignity. Until we are treated as equals, reforms will never feel complete,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
