Sarawak, a Malaysian state on Borneo Island, is rapidly positioning itself as a regional leader in clean hydrogen energy. With its abundant renewable resources and strategic partnerships, the state aims to become the “Battery of Asia” by 2035, supplying sustainable energy across Southeast Asia. A significant development in this journey is the collaboration with Siemens Energy, which has pledged to support Sarawak’s hydrogen initiatives.

Siemens Energy’s Commitment to Sarawak’s Hydrogen Ambitions

In April 2025, Siemens Energy reinforced its dedication to Sarawak’s clean energy goals by offering two 500-megawatt gas turbines for an energy project in Samalaju.

These turbines are designed to be hydrogen-capable, aligning with Sarawak’s vision of integrating hydrogen into its energy mix. Thorbjorn Fors, Siemens Energy’s Managing Director, emphasized the company’s interest in collaborating to advance Sarawak’s hydrogen economy, including accelerating hydrogen production and utilization. Additionally, Siemens Energy plans to partner with local universities to provide training and development opportunities, fostering a skilled workforce to support the state’s energy transition.

Sarawak’s Strategic Vision: Becoming the ‘Battery of Asia’

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has articulated a clear vision for Sarawak to become the “Battery of Asia” by 2035.

This entails increasing the state’s electricity capacity to 10 gigawatts by 2030 and 15 gigawatts by 2035. The energy mix will predominantly feature renewable sources, including hydroelectric power and hydrogen. Sarawak’s approach involves developing Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plants, such as the one in Miri, which will utilize a blend of 30% hydrogen and 70% natural gas to generate 500 megawatts of electricity. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to supply clean energy to neighboring regions and countries. 

Establishing the Sarawak H2 Hub

A cornerstone of Sarawak’s hydrogen strategy is the development of the Sarawak H2 Hub in Bintulu. This facility, a joint venture between SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd and Gentari Hydrogen Sdn Bhd, aims to standardize and optimize hydrogen production projects in the region. The hub will serve as the sole supplier of green hydrogen for downstream facilities and adopts a modular “plug and play” concept to integrate various hydrogen production units efficiently.

Projects like H2ornbill, in collaboration with Japanese firms ENEOS and Sumitomo Corporation, and H2biscus, partnering with South Korean companies Samsung Engineering, Lotte Chemical, and KNOC, are integral components of this hub. (SEDC Energy, Gentari formalise JV to develop Sarawak hydrogen hub, SEDC Energy, Gentari Hydrogen formalise JV to develop Sarawak H2 Hub)

Advancements in Hydrogen Infrastructure and Technology

Sarawak has made significant strides in hydrogen infrastructure, notably with the launch of Southeast Asia’s first integrated hydrogen production plant and refueling station in Kuching in 2019. This facility, developed by Sarawak Energy, produces hydrogen through electrolysis and supports hydrogen-powered buses and vehicles, marking a pivotal step in green transportation. 

Furthering its commitment, Sarawak inaugurated the nation’s first electrolyzer assembly and distribution facility at Demak Laut Industrial Park in June 2024. This facility is among the first in Southeast Asia to incorporate an automated assembly line, aiming to reduce hydrogen production costs and bolster the state’s position as a hydrogen hub.

International Collaborations and Future Prospects

Sarawak’s hydrogen initiatives have attracted international attention, leading to collaborations with global technology leaders. In December 2024, Premier Abang Johari visited Mitsubishi Power’s Takasago Hydrogen Park in Japan to explore cooperation opportunities. Mitsubishi Power has supplied a 500-megawatt hydrogen-capable gas turbine to the Miri CCGT Power Plant, showcasing the integration of advanced technology in Sarawak’s energy projects. (S’wak, Mitsubishi Power join forces to drive hydrogen economy, strengthen energy future | DayakDaily)

These partnerships not only enhance technological capabilities but also position Sarawak as a key player in the global hydrogen economy. With confirmed off-takers from countries like Japan and South Korea, Sarawak is poised to begin exporting renewable hydrogen by the end of 2027, further solidifying its role in the international clean energy landscape.

Conclusion

Sarawak’s concerted efforts, bolstered by collaborations with industry leaders like Siemens Energy, Mitsubishi Power, and various international partners, underscore its commitment to a sustainable energy future. By leveraging its abundant natural resources and strategic initiatives, Sarawak is well on its way to becoming a central hub for clean hydrogen energy in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Source: (Premier: Sarawak to become ‘Battery of Asia’ with completion of energy resource hubs by 2035 – Asia Pacific Green Hydrogen, Miri’s RM2 Billion CCGT Power Plant: Pioneering Hydrogen Energy in Sarawak – AdvanceH2), (Sarawak Launches South East Asia’s First Integrated Hydrogen Production Plant and Refueling Station, Unveils Hydrogen Buses – Sarawak Energy), Asia Pacific Green Hydrogen, The Star, advanceh2.com