Abang Johari (second right) receiving a souvenir from the hosts. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad

KUCHING (Oct 23): Sarawak’s pioneering low-carbon policy framework has drawn global recognition, with the state invited to share its model at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland earlier this year, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the invitation was in acknowledgment of Sarawak’s success in designating Bintulu as a low-carbon transition industrial cluster — a move that placed the state at the forefront of Malaysia’s green transformation agenda.

“Sarawak is leading the green transition in Malaysia and the region. Our approach integrates economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental care.

“With political determination, research, and collaboration, Sarawak will continue to shape a sustainable, carbon-negative future for generations to come,” he said at the opening of the 11th International Conference on Low Carbon Asia (ICLCA 2025) at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here today.

Abang Johari said Sarawak’s journey toward a carbon-negative economy is built on political determination, scientific research and strategic partnerships with international stakeholders such as the World Bank, Japan and South Korea.

He said 62 per cent of Sarawak’s land remains forested, acting as a carbon sink and that extensive mangrove forests enhance carbon retention capacity.

Sarawak’s depleted offshore oil wells can also serve as carbon storage reservoirs, he added.

Abang Johari highlighted that since 2021, Sarawak has planted more than 54 million trees under the “One Billion Trees” campaign, reinforcing its environmental commitments.

He stressed that transformation requires strong political will and long-term investment, pointing out that Sarawak’s bold digitalisation and hydrogen initiatives — once met with scepticism — have now proven their feasibility and impact.

He also encouraged native customary rights (NCR) landowners to explore participation in carbon trading once valuation mechanisms are fully established, noting that this could open new income streams while supporting conservation efforts.