KUCHING, May 22: In a major stride towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices, Sarawak has announced significant progress in the development and implementation of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) within its aviation industry.
Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the introduction of SAF aims to mitigate the environmental impact of aviation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
“Today is the result of cooperation between Petronas, especially in the Research and Development Department together with Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) in the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using algae.
“Sarawak’s future is bright in terms of oil production because we have suitable conditions to produce crude oil,” he said when attending the showcase of the use of Sarawak’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in an Airbus A220-300 flying from Kuching to Lima 2023 at the Kuching International Airport here today.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari pointed out that there are several prerequisites to be adhered to in the production of algae crude oil.
“There are prerequisites that are required in the production of algae crude oil and that is, the sunlight must be sufficient and secondly, the carbon dioxide, and lastly, the climate weather conditions.
“Additionally, we have a relatively long coastline because this technology utilizes seawater which means that we are able to produce algae oil,” he said.
On matters pertaining to the pricing, Abang Johari disclosed that it is worth around 50-100 U.S dollars per barrel.
“Based on the research, it is priced at around 50 USD per barrel and the price can be reduced depending on the outcome of our research. As of today, it is roughly around 50-100 USD.
“Once we are able to mass produce the oil, the production cost may be reduced as well and the price itself will depend on the prices of oil today as more and more people are adopting sustainable energy which will soon replace fossil fuel,” he added.
Thus by embracing such an initiative, Sarawak would further position itself in pioneering its journey toward a greener future. – TVS
