Insights from Borneo Energy Transition Conference 2024

BY SHEILA ROZARIO

CLEAN energy solutions provider Gentari Sdn Bhd ( Gentari ), through its subsidiary Gentari Hydrogen Sdn Bhd , signed a Heads of Agreement ( HOA ) with SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd ( SEDCE ), a subsidiary of the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation , for the joint development of a centralised hydrogen production hub in Sarawak ’ s Bintulu , to be known as the Sarawak H2 Hub .

The document exchange was witnessed on Feb 26 at the Borneo Energy Transition Conference ( BETC2024 ) in Kuching by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Openg .

SEDCE was tasked to kickstart the new energy ecosystem in Sarawak in line with the State government ’ s vision to emphasise using new and cleaner energy .

In a gathering of distinguished guests at the gala dinner marking the Borneo Energy Transition Conference 2024 , Sarawak Economic Development Corporation ( SEDC ) Chairman Abdul Aziz Husain addressed SEDC ’ s collaborative journey towards sustainable energy .

COLLABORATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

He expressed gratitude for the support of key partners and stakeholders .

“ Our journey towards sustainable energy is not a solitary endeavour but a collective and collaborative effort .

“ With that , I want to express my deepest gratitude for the unwavering support of our key partners and stakeholders who have been instrumental in shaping and advancing the Green Energy Initiative in line with Sarawak ’ s Post Covid Development Strategy 2030 ( PCDS 2030 ).”

Highlighting the significance of strategic partnerships , Abdul Aziz praised the collaboration between SEDC Energy and Malaysian Rating Corporation Berhad ( MARC ) in organising BETC 2024 .

“ Collaboration lies at the heart of our long-term progress and economic prosperity in Sarawak . Tonight , as we come together under the banner of BETC 2024 , we celebrate the spirit of unity and shared vision that propels us forward in this transformative era of energy evolution .”

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS FOR MEGA-PROJECTS

Discussing mega projects , Abdul Aziz outlined SEDC ’ s involvement in green hydrogen initiatives , which are aligned with the Sarawak government ’ s aspirations for zero carbon emissions .

Beyond hydrogen projects , Abdul Aziz touched upon other ambitious ventures under Sarawak ’ s Green Economy Initiative , including the Kuching Urban Transportation System ( KUTS ) Project and the Petchem Industrial Park in Bintulu .

These projects signify a holistic approach to sustainable development , leveraging Sarawak ’ s strategic assets for long-term prosperity .

EMPOWERING TALENT

Recognising the pivotal role of talent in driving progress , Abdul Aziz emphasised the importance of empowering local talent . By investing in people and fostering a culture of innovation , SEDC aims to position Sarawak as a regional leader in the new energy landscape .

“ Empowering talent , especially local talent , is paramount to our success , and we are dedicated to providing opportunities for growth and innovation .

“ As we embark on this energy transition journey , we recognise the importance of investing in our people , our homegrown Sarawakian talent , fostering a culture of continuous learning , and nurturing the skills necessary for the challenges ahead .”

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES Abdul Aziz underscored SEDC ’ s

The planned global-scale hydrogen production hub in Bintulu is intended to serve as the sole supplier of green hydrogen for downstream facilities in the Bintulu division area , managed by a joint venture company to be formed by Gentari and SEDCE , which will also be responsible for optimising all hydrogen production projects within the region .

“ Malaysia is well-placed to be a clean hydrogen hub in ASEAN , led by states such as Sarawak with ample sustainable resources ,” commented Gentari ’ s Chief Hydrogen Officer Michèle Azalbert .

“ At Gentari , we have been focused on collaborating with partners such as SEDC Energy to develop the local hydrogen economy , creating economic value for the State while positioning the country as a hydrogen export hub .

Abdul Aziz Husain

commitment to social responsibility , announcing the Kuching Autism Association ( KAA ) as the beneficiary of BETC 2024 .

“ The KAA is an organisation close to our hearts , dedicated to supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families . Through their tireless efforts , they provide invaluable resources , advocacy and support services to enhance the lives of those affected by autism .

“ By choosing the KAA as the beneficiary of BETC 2024 , we are reaffirming our commitment to social responsibility and community empowerment .”

THE ROAD AHEAD

Abdul Aziz conveyed optimism for the future , citing the importance of continued support from leadership and collaborative partnerships in combating climate change and advancing sustainable energy .

With continuous support and strategic alliances , the journey towards a sustainable energy future promises to be transformative , shaping the landscape for future generations .

“ Together , let us harness the power of collective action and collaboration to make a lasting impact on our communities and create a brighter , more inclusive future for future generations .”

“ We believe that hydrogen is the way forward , and we are committed to contributing to Sarawak ’ s Hydrogen Economy Roadmap and the Malaysian government ’ s vision and objectives for the Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap ( HETR ).

“ Hydrogen ’ s role in decarbonising sectors like energy , transportation , and petrochemicals globally cannot be understated , and the demand for low carbon hydrogen derivatives is a testament to its rising significance .”

Sarawak is positioning itself to be a commercial hydrogen producer by 2027 with the vision of transitioning the State into a hydrogen economy .

“ This strategic partnership between SEDCE and Gentari for the Sarawak H2 hub will be a significant undertaking as

THE recent Borneo Energy Transition Conference 2024 ( BETC 2024 ) was a crucial forum for stakeholders to delve into sustainable energy solutions amidst the global imperative to combat climate change .

It was held in February by SEDC Energy in Kuching Sarawak .

The conference commenced with a keynote address by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Openg , who said : “ We recognise the importance of meeting future energy demands while minimising environmental impact . Preserving our natural resources and the well-being of our communities is paramount as we navigate towards a cleaner and greener future .”

COLLABORATION FOR A GREENER TOMORROW

Acknowledging the complexity of challenges , Abang Johari highlighted the necessity for collaboration across disciplines . He commended SEDC Energy and MARC for their efforts in organising BETC 2024 , emphasising the importance of merging minds and charting the future of the energy sector .

During the conference ’ s opening , MARC Group Chief Executive Officer ( CEO ) Datuk Jamaludin Nasir emphasised Malaysia ’ s role in global energy transition efforts .

“ Malaysia stands at the forefront of global efforts in energy transition ,” highlighting Malaysia ’ s position in the World Economic Forum ’ s 2023 Energy Transition Index . He stressed the importance of active participation from both private and public sectors in achieving sustainable energy goals .

A PIVOTAL PLATFORM FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION

A significant focus of BETC 2024 was strategic collaborations outlined by SEDC Energy . These initiatives with Gentari , Samsung Engineering , and ICE Petroleum aim to propel hydrogen technology , advance sustainable energy solutions , and drive regional decarbonisation .

Against escalating environmental concerns , BETC 2024 was a pivotal platform to address pressing challenges and opportunities in the energy sector collectively . With stakeholders from various domains coming together , the conference was committed to forging a sustainable energy future .

this will spur more developments and attract new investments , especially in the new energy sector ,” added SEDCE CEO Robert Hardin .

“ Hydrogen will play a role in the energy transition , and as highlighted in the National Energy Transition Roadmap , Sarawak ’ s role in advancing this development is worthwhile to note .

“ It resonates well with our approach to collaboration internationally and domestically .”

Gentari and SEDC Energy had previously entered into a Strategic Collaboration Agreement to explore potential collaborations in the development and provision of integrated clean energy solutions and contribution to policy and regulatory development in the State . – @ green