Sarawak looks to Masdar City model for Kuching’s future urban development

KUCHING (Nov 6): Sarawak wants to use the development model of Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), as a future urban development in Kuching, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He expressed this vision after visiting Masdar City on Tuesday, stating that the model could inspire urban development in Kuching’s new areas.

“We see the potential to learn from this city’s sustainability efforts, which we can adopt as a model for the development we plan to implement in Kuching, especially in the newer parts of the city.

“I believe we can replicate what has been achieved in Masdar City. Further discussions will be held, and perhaps we can explore partnerships with Abu Dhabi,” he said according to a report from the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas).

Accompanying him during the visit were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) Chairman Datuk Ibrahim Baki.

Also part of the Sarawak delegates were Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) Chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Hamid Bugo, Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) Chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Husain, SEB Group CEO Datuk Sharbini Suhaili, and other senior Sarawak government officials.

The premier highlighted that transforming Kuching into a carbon-free city with advanced technology is a priority.

He indicated the possibility of forming partnerships with Abu Dhabi to further explore sustainable urban development.

During the visit, Abang Johari observed how Masdar City integrates solar power, low-carbon initiatives, and environmental conservation, alongside advanced institutions, commercial spaces, and administrative centers.

“This development sets a high standard, with its focus on environmental care and advanced institutions of higher learning, commercial establishments, and administration,” he said.

The premier also noted the potential for collaboration between Sarawak and Abu Dhabi on new economic ventures, adding that he would present these ideas to the Sarawak Cabinet for further discussion on future cooperation.