BANGKOK, May 17: Sarawak’s Ministry of Utilities and Telecommunications is optimistic that more river basins will be identified to be potentially developed into cascade power sources.
According to Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, so far 12 river basins have been listed throughout Sarawak for implementation of cascade power source projects, with a potential power output of approximately 3,000 megawatts (MW).
“Sungai Tekali and Sungai Bangkit have the potential to be developed as cascade power sources, according to a letter we got from the Katibas state assemblyman.
“Therefore, it is important that the implementation of this project has received the attention of the local community in the area and this is a positive step,” he said.
He said this when asked to provide further details on the implementation of cascade power projects including the Gaat, Belaga, Tutoh, Danum, Balui, Trusan, Lawas, Limbang, Tinjar, Baram, Tekalit, and Bangkit rivers in Sarawak.
Julaihi further said that his ministry is actively hosting engagement sessions with district offices, resident offices, elected officials, and other grassroots leaders to discuss local community participation in order to ensure that the projects are feasible.
“If any party does not agree, there is no term of coercion in implementing cascade power projects in their area,” he said.
According to Julaihi, Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) was chosen as the pioneer as it oversees the management of the energy distribution and transmission system.
At the same time, private investment firms will also be participating in the venture. – TVS
