The Sarawak Foundry & Engineering Industries Association (SWKFEIA) has been urged to support the state’s renewable energy initiatives by fabricating aluminium frames for solar panels.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg made the call when officiating at the association’s 31st anniversary dinner here last night, highlighting opportunities for the local foundry and engineering sector to participate in Sarawak’s green transition.
“Now, with solar panels, you need a new way to maintain them. Solar also involves foundry work because the frame is made of aluminium. Then, Dato Sri Kho Kak Beng can make the frame, and your association can, what you call, fabricate the frame — and that is where the solar panels will be placed,” he said.
He explained that solar energy would play an increasingly important role in Sarawak’s renewable energy mix, complementing the state’s ongoing hydropower and hydrogen development.
“Our new housing estates — we want people also to use solar energy. The roofs can be fitted with solar panels. Now, with new technology, solar panels are not just for rooftops; they can also be installed on walls,” he said.
Abang Johari said the presence of LONGi, one of the world’s leading solar manufacturers operating in Kuching, was a major advantage for Sarawak’s renewable energy ambitions.
“Fortunately, we have LONGi here producing solar panels. These panels also need to be maintained to keep them clean because they are made of silicon. So, if we have skilled people who can handle the maintenance, we can sustain the use of renewable energy,” he said.
He emphasised that Sarawak’s push towards renewable energy is part of a broader shift away from carbon-based fuels, taking inspiration from global leaders such as China in adopting clean technologies.
“Sarawak is focusing and taking China as a model. The world’s problem is climate change caused by carbon emissions. We have to change — not using hydrocarbons, but renewable energy,” he said.
The Premier said that aside from hydropower and solar, hydrogen would remain a key pillar in Sarawak’s clean energy strategy. Hydrogen, he noted, is already being developed for use in transportation, including the state’s upcoming Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system.
“Our ART is powered by hydrogen. When you talk about hydrogen, you talk about ART. Who is going to maintain it? The fuel cell is not the same as petrol. Our technicians and mechanics must change, learning new ways to maintain public transport,” he said.
Abang Johari said the renewable energy transition would open up new economic opportunities for local industries, including those in the foundry and engineering sectors, which could support the fabrication, maintenance, and technology needs of emerging industries.
“We have to embrace new technology. If China can do it, Sarawak can do it also,” he added.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, SWKFEIA chairman Dato Sri Kho Kak Beng, organising chairman of the 31st anniversary celebration Lee Vui Sin, and the association’s secretary Chan Seng Hai.
Credit: Borneo Post Online
