BABAGON DAM FLOATING SOLAR PROJECT MARKS MAJOR RENEWABLE PUSH IN SABAH

PENAMPANG, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- The Floating Solar Project at Babagon Dam carries significant meaning for Sabah as it reflects the state’s commitment and capability in implementing modern, high-impact renewable energy initiatives.

Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the floating solar photovoltaic project is the first in Sabah and in Malaysia for the concept of floating solar on potable water, involving solar installations on a water reservoir that also serves as a source of water supply for the local community.

“In this context, I wish to stress that Babagon Dam is an important asset to the community and the state, particularly as a water source. Therefore, I welcome the implementation approach of this project, which emphasises safety aspects, technical compliance and good governance.

“Innovation must move in tandem with responsibility. The success of the project is not measured solely by its construction and launch, but more importantly by its long-term operations that are safe and comply with established standards,” he said when launching the project at Babagon Dam here today.

At the ceremony, Masidi also launched the 15MWac Solar PV Project in Batu Sapi, Sandakan.

Masidi, who is also Sabah Finance Minister, said the state government through the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap emphasises balanced development in strengthening the economy, enhancing public well-being and ensuring environmental sustainability continues to be preserved.

As such, he said both projects are expected to provide continuous benefits to Sabah in terms of technological advancement, green economic growth and public welfare.

He said the implementation of renewable energy projects aligns with the aspirations as they contribute to strengthening clean energy capacity, empowering the green industry, creating job opportunities and developing local vendors, as well as gradually reducing carbon dioxide emissions in the energy and industrial sectors.

Masidi also expressed appreciation for the strategic collaboration between Jetama, the Energy Commission of Sabah, Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd and Sabah Development Berhad, which he said should be emulated as it not only accelerates project implementation but also helps build local technical capabilities, expand the value chain and deliver broader economic benefits to the people of Sabah.

“I hope both these projects will serve as catalysts for more renewable energy initiatives in Sabah, with emphasis on orderly governance, compliance with existing standard operating procedures and efficient implementation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA