Sabah energy transition enters new phase

by · Borneo Post Online
Dr Joachim, Abdul Nasser and Ridhwan, together with the top leadership of Sabah Electricity, Sarawak Energy, and representatives from the Federal Government, witnessed the Sarawak–Sabah interconnection after it was successfully integrated into the Sabah grid.

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 13): The commissioning of the 275kV Sabah–Sarawak Interconnection marks a strategic milestone in strengthening electricity supply security and powering Sabah’s future.

Through this cross-border transmission link, Sabah is now able to tap into a wider and more robust generation mix from the regional grid, significantly enhancing system stability, increasing reserve margins, and supporting long-term demand growth.

The commissioning of the new 275kV Sabah–Sarawak Interconnection was witnessed by Deputy Chief Minister cum Minister of Works and Utility, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam at Load Despatched Centre near here on Saturday.

The commissioning ceremony which marks a history for Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (Sabah Electricity) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), was attended by Sabah Electricity Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ir. Mohd Yaakob Jaafar and SEB Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Sharbini Suhaili.

Also present at the event were Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Utility, Datuk Ridwan Limus, Sabah Electricity chairman Saadiah Aziz and Chief Executive Officer of Energy Commission of Sabah, Datuk Ir. Abdul Nasser Abdul Wahid.

The synchronising of the transmission line was tied at PMU Mengalong, Sipitang and the witnessing ceremony was conducted virtually via the Microsoft Teams platform, enabling seamless participation from Sabah Electricity and SEB.

Meanwhile, Dr Joachim said this interconnection also reinforces the vision of creating a more resilient and interconnected Borneo power system, enabling energy-sharing capabilities, operational flexibility, and greater protection against supply disruptions.

Ultimately, the project positions Sabah to accelerate its energy transition agenda, improve reliability for consumers, and foster sustainable economic development across the region, Dr Joachim said in a  statement on Saturday.

The transmission lines were successfully put on soak on December 10 2025 and scheduled to be commercially in operation on December 13 2025, when the energy flow will be connected to the Sabah Grid, allowing an additional 30MW to 50MW of power to be injected, enhancing grid stability, supporting growing demand, and strengthening operational resilience.

This marks a new phase in Sabah energy transition and driving initiatives that deliver better service and an enhanced experience for the people of Sabah. Beyond Sabah, the interconnection also lays the foundation for the future ASEAN Power Grid.