Sarawak Premier Highlights Promising Prospects in Graphite Production
Premier Stresses Need for Comprehensive Study in Mining Exploration
KUCHING: Sarawak stands at the cusp of a mining boom, with significant opportunities emerging in the production of graphite, as highlighted by Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the Premier of Sarawak. Speaking to reporters at the Sarawak Premier’s Department’s Victim Worship Ceremony at Wisma SABATI, Abang Johari underscored the state’s untapped potential in the mining sector, particularly in graphite production.
“Because we have a lot of potential. We may be able to produce graphite. In downstream processing, these minerals can be combined to create new products,” he stated.
The Strategic Importance of Graphite in Modern Industries
Graphite, a critical component in fuel cells and hydrogen production, represents a lucrative avenue for Sarawak. Abang Johari emphasized the state’s unique position, given its biomass resources, to produce this valuable mineral.
“As I mentioned, we also have biomass that has certain characteristics that allow us (Sarawak) to produce graphite,” he added. “Graphite is a chemical required in fuel cells and hydrogen production. For example, if we have this, there is potential for income other than from a scientific perspective.”
High-Level Delegations to Study Global Best Practices
Abang Johari revealed that a delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan recently visited Canada to study the country’s exemplary mineral management practices. Canada is renowned for its environmentally friendly and efficient mining operations, which ensure land restoration post-mining activities.
“After mining, the land is restored and returned to its original state,” Abang Johari noted. “From a legal perspective in Canada… Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Legal, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali is also part of the delegation and I am looking into what was said in their report (from the work visit).”
Department of Geology and Geosciences Tasked with Resource Identification
In line with these initiatives, the Department of Geology and Geosciences has been tasked with identifying the state’s mineral resources. Abang Johari stressed the importance of sustainable exploitation of these resources.
“We don’t want to over-exploit our resources. We will only produce a small amount. The important thing is that it also has valuable by-products,” he explained. “Because it was mentioned that the value of the minerals found in this state is as much as RM1.25 trillion. This is what has been estimated.”
Commitment to Sustainable and Ethical Mining Practices
Sarawak’s approach to mining aligns with global best practices, focusing on sustainability and minimal environmental impact. The Premier’s remarks highlight a balanced approach, ensuring economic benefits while preserving natural resources for future generations.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
The Victim Worship Ceremony also served as a platform for community engagement. During the event, Abang Johari distributed sacrificial beef to 100 individuals from various Sarawak Government agencies. Additionally, he presented sacrificial beef and financial donations to Ustaz Kamarulzaman Kawi from the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS), representing the 10 beneficiaries of the asnaf group. Daelonial McDelon@Mohd Asyraf Abdullah, known as Kilat Boy, represented the employees of the Sarawak Premier’s Department in receiving these donations.
The Road Ahead for Sarawak’s Mining Sector
As Sarawak embarks on this promising journey in the mining sector, the focus remains on leveraging its natural resources responsibly. With strategic planning, comprehensive studies, and adherence to sustainable practices, the state aims to unlock substantial economic potential through graphite production.
Conclusion
The Premier’s vision for Sarawak’s mining sector reflects a commitment to harnessing natural resources in an environmentally responsible manner. By adopting best practices from global leaders like Canada, Sarawak is poised to become a significant player in the graphite market, contributing to both local and global economies.