Sarawak aims for net negative carbon emissions by 2050

KUCHING, 6 Nov: Sarawak aims to achieve net negative carbon emissions by 2050 through the implementation of the Net Zero Strategy and Sarawak's Carbon Plan launched today.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the strategy was an important policy in ensuring the state's economic growth is implemented sustainably without neglecting environmental conservation.

According to him, the approach sets a balanced development direction through green economic growth, sustainable industry and responsible management of natural resources for future generations.

"Net Zero doesn't mean no direct development. We can continue to develop the economy, but we need to balance that development with new management methods, digitisation and technology to control carbon emissions", he said.

He said this while addressing the Sarawak Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability (MEESty) 2026 Appreciation Night and the Sarawak Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan Launch Meeting here, tonight.

The strategy sets a target of reducing carbon emissions by 35 per cent, potentially creating green investment opportunities worth RM347 billion and supporting some 223,000 jobs.

Brother Johari said the plan covers 15 strategic priorities involving eight major carbon emission contributing sectors as well as seven cross-sector facilitators, including energy, industry, transportation, building, waste and agriculture.

According to him, Sarawak also has natural advantages through forest areas, peatlands and buffalo forests that absorb carbon, besides protecting biodiversity, water resources and the life of local communities.

He said the state energy transition efforts also leveraged a variety of resources including hydro, gas, solar, biobased and hydrogen as clean energy alternatives, besides exploring storage technology as well as carbon utilization and carbon trading.

"This foundation is not just an experiment, but a clear commitment to ensure Sarawak achieves its net negative carbon emissions targets by 2050, while continuing green growth and maintaining long-term economic sustainability", he said.