Sustainable energy supply strengthens socio-economic development in Sabah

12 November 2024

KIMANIS: A sufficient and sustainable energy supply will enhance the quality of life for the people of Sabah and strengthen the socio-economic development of the state, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

He stated that the state government is committed to continuously empowering resource management and energy sector development in the state through the Sabah Energy Roadmap 2040 (SE-RAMP 2040).

According to him, SE-RAMP 2040 is an important step for the State Government to ensure a sustainable energy supply, equitable and comprehensive access, and affordable costs, in line with the government's aspiration to provide electricity to all the people of Sabah.

“Under this plan, the Sabah Energy Council (MTS) has been established to monitor, support, and provide guidance on the implementation of planned short, medium, and long-term initiatives. MTS, in its second meeting last August, approved several critical projects for the development of a 700-Megawatt (MW) generation capacity to strengthen the Grid System in Sabah.

“The 100MW Power Plant project by Kimanis Power (Dua) Sdn. Bhd. is among the approved projects to ensure a sufficient electricity supply to meet the needs of our industries and communities. This project will certainly further strengthen the sources and electricity supply in the state of Sabah, thereby ensuring the well-being of the people of this state,” he said.

He made these remarks at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the 100MW Kimanis Power Plant project and the 15th Anniversary Celebration of Kimanis Power Sdn. Bhd. at the Kimanis Power Station in Papar on Tuesday.

Hajiji stated that through close cooperation between the Sabah Foundation Group and PETRONAS Gas Berhad, Kimanis Power has developed as an Independent Power Producer that plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability of electricity supply in Sabah, which is fundamental to the development of the state.

He noted that the energy sector has been a significant driver and one of the largest contributors to Sabah's economy for several decades. Therefore, this project will be able to meet the increasing energy demand in the state.

He mentioned that PETRONAS, as a key partner of Sabah, continues to play an important role in strengthening the socio-economic development of the state through human capital development and strategic cooperation with the State Government.

He highlighted that this commitment is evident in PETRONAS's efforts to advance local talent by providing training opportunities, skill enhancement programs, and continuous education for the children of Sabah.

“PETRONAS also supports the local economy through technology transfer and the empowerment of local vendors. This integrated effort not only advances the oil and gas industry in Sabah but also improves the living standards of the people and stimulates the overall economy of the state,” he emphasised.

Hajiji congratulated Kimanis Power on its 15 years of outstanding achievements in the energy industry in Sabah and its contributions to the development of the state, hoping for more innovations and collaborations between PETRONAS and the State Government in the future.