Sarawak sets 2030 goal for full hydropower sustainability certification
The Government of Sarawak has announced plans for all major hydropower plants in the state to be certified under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS) by 2030 – a landmark commitment that would make it one of the first jurisdictions globally to certify its full hydropower portfolio.
Sarawak Energy Chair Datuk Haji Ibrahim Bin Haji Baki and CEO Datuk Haji Sharbini Suhaili receiving the certification plaque for the Bakun Hydroelectric Plant in September 2025
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative supports Sarawak’s ambition to position itself as a renewable energy leader in Southeast Asia while maintaining high environmental and social standards.
“Large-scale hydropower – when planned, developed, and operated responsibly – can deliver reliable and affordable energy while demonstrating strong sustainability outcomes,” said Premier Abang Johari, in a statement delivered on his behalf by State Deputy Minister for Utility Datuk Ibrahim Baki at the International Conference on Dam Safety Management and Engineering.
The Bakun Hydroelectric Plant, owned and operated by Sarawak Energy, is Southeast Asia’s largest hydropower facility and recently achieved Silver certification under the HSS.
The Murum Hydroelectric Plant is among the project portfolio in Sarawak targeted for HSS certification by 2030
Global example of leadership
The Hydropower Sustainability Alliance (HSA) welcomes Sarawak’s announcement as a significant step in advancing portfolio-level sustainability certification. By committing to certify all its major hydropower plants, Sarawak is paving the way for the systematic integration of sustainability across energy systems.
João Costa, Executive Director of HSA, said: “Sarawak Energy stands out as a true champion of sustainability, not only to ensure compliance or manage risk, but to lead with purpose and ambition. I’ve seen first-hand how their achievements are driven by a culture where sustainability is a shared purpose embraced by everyone.
“At HSA, we are proud to support Sarawak Energy and other leading companies taking a portfolio-wide approach to certification and demonstrating how sustainability is the best path to long-term value.”
The Hydropower Sustainability Standard provides a globally recognised framework for measuring and certifying hydropower sustainability performance across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) topics. Find out more.
