‘We in Sarawak must shift from our dependence on the oil and gas industry towards industries that rely on brain power.’
KUCHING: Sarawak can no longer depend too heavily on oil and gas for income generation and must shift towards high-tech, knowledge-based industries, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said.
He emphasised that the state government must make a decisive shift towards “brain power” and high-technology sectors.
Johari conveyed this message during a meeting with Sarawakians in Manchester, England, at a “Night with Anak Sarawak” event held during his current working visit.
The Sarawak Public Communications Unit, in a statement, said global developments have exposed the oil and gas sector to volatility in both supply and pricing.
“We in Sarawak must shift from our dependence on the oil and gas industry towards industries that rely on brain power.
“That is why Sarawak is going big in developing high-tech sectors that utilise intelligent technologies.
“Oil and gas resources are finite, but brain power has no limit.
“We are also going big in the green energy sector, where we have strong capabilities,” he said.
Johari said Sarawak is also exploring alternative energy sources for aviation and shipping fuel.
He noted that Sarawak is feeling the impact of global economic uncertainties caused by volatile geopolitical developments.
“We must diversify our economic base to generate new sources of income.
“Sarawak’s ventures into green energy and the alternative fuel industry present exciting new opportunities that will help shape a sustainable future.
“We can no longer depend too heavily on our traditional revenue earners,” he said.
Sarawak is also exploring more foreign collaborations within Asean and on the global stage, he added.
The state has significant crude oil production facilities offshore near Miri, as well as natural gas production in Bintulu, and produces large amounts of petroleum by-products.
These products are exported and also refined for domestic use within Sarawak.
Johari is currently on a working visit to England and Ireland.
