Kuching: Satok state assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki was sworn in as the Sarawak Deputy Utility and Telecommunication Minister in charge of Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros), before Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar at Astana Negeri, here today. The SEB chairman’s appointment takes effect today.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ibrahim expressed his key missions as deputy minister, which include driving efforts toward the green economy and realising the state’s aspiration to become an energy hub in the ASEAN region. He emphasized the importance of renewable energy and the strategic position Sarawak aims to achieve in the Borneo grid and the broader energy sector.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stated that Ibrahim’s appointment aligns with Sarawak’s vision to strategically develop its energy sector while coordinating gas development in the state. Ibrahim’s prior experience with Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) is expected to facilitate negotiations between Petronas and Petros.

Abang Johari highlighted that Ibrahim’s role would involve collaboration with Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, the Minister of Utility and Telecommunication, to coordinate engagements with Petronas-Petros and support the Sarawak Gas Roadmap. The appointment and subsequent cabinet reshuffle aim to enhance the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government’s service delivery and boost the energy sector, including oil and gas investments.

Additionally, Abang Johari announced the appointment of Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi as the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier Department, focusing on project coordination for regional development agencies, Kuching North City Hall, and Islamic affairs, effective today.