September-October . 2024 | @ green

Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg highlighted these measures during his keynote address at the Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference ( APPEC ) 2024 in Singapore .

As part of the national Greening Malaysia Campaign , which aims to plant 100 million trees by 2025 , Sarawak achieved its goal of planting 35 million trees by June this year .

Sarawak ’ s rainforests play a crucial role in maintaining clean air , water , and in combating climate change . The State , with 12.4 million hectares of land , retains 62 per cent forest cover , contributing 42 per cent of Malaysia ’ s total .

Sarawak is also making strides in public transport with its 50km hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit ( ART ) under the Kuching Urban Transportation System ( KUTS ). This initiative is intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by cutting the dependence on private vehicles and fostering adaptable , futureready cities .

Additionally , the State is developing smart cities that will incorporate green infrastructure , energy-efficient buildings , waste-to-energy facili-

ties , and clean energy clusters . This approach ensures the cities are resilient and sustainable .

Sarawak ’ s agriculture sector is also evolving , with hybrid paddy cultivation and AI-driven farming being introduced to improve rural productivity and income . These efforts align with the State ’ s target of achieving rice self-sufficiency by 2027 and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices .

Looking ahead , Sarawak ’ s government will issue annual sustainability reports to track public sector contributions to green initiatives . By integrating climate considerations into every decision and enforcing strict regulations , the State aims to lead by example , setting ambitious emission targets and fostering a resilient future .

ALL new zeroemission vehicles ( ZEV ), including electric vehicles ( EVs ), will need to use the Road Transport Department ’ s JPJePlate as part of its digitalisation efforts .

Transport Minister Anthony Loke ( pic ) announced that , while it was not mandatory for existing ZEVs , owners could place their orders starting in November .

The JPJePlate , priced at RM98 per set , includes front and rear plates , an RFID windshield sticker , and standard delivery . This initiative aims to enhance road safety and security through improved visibility , anticloning holograms , and integration with the Intelligent Transportation System ( ITS ) using RFID technology .

Loke stated that vehicle manufacturers and distributors can now order the JPJePlate for new ZEV customers via the official website . While the current focus is on ZEVs , there are plans to extend its use to other vehicles in the future .

Handal Ceria Sdn Bhd was selected as the vendor for the JPJePlate following a Request for Proposal in October 2023 . Loke also mentioned that the company has partnered with ChargeEV to provide charging credits for new EVs fitted with the JPJePlate .

Looking ahead , the ministry is exploring ways to integrate the JPJePlate with other systems , such as Touch N Go and parking operators , to support the growing EV market in Malaysia , which has seen a 150 per cent rise in registered EVs over the past year . – @ green

SINGAPORE is eager to enhance cooperation with Sarawak , particularly in the renewable energy sector .

Dr Tan See Leng , Singapore ’ s Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry noted that Sarawak ’ s strategic location and vast natural resources present significant opportunities in this area .

Sarawak is well-positioned to lead in renewable energy , and this topic is set to be a key focus in future discussions . Dr Tan also expressed optimism about the growth of bilateral trade and tourism connectivity between Singapore and Sarawak . He anticipated further collaboration on renewable energy imports .

These comments were made following a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia .

Dr Tan , who also met with Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar , described the meetings as highly productive . He is looking forward to a series of engagements between the two parties in the coming months and hopes to set up discussions for a Leaders ’ Retreat by year-end .

Singapore ’ s Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry , Dr Tan See Leng ( left ), with Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia