Another step towards the Borneo power grid realised with the operational of Sarawak-Sabah interconnection line

KOTA KINABALU, Jan 24 2026: Another step towards the establishment of the Borneo power grid has been realised with the successful delivery of the 275kV Sarawak-Sabah paralle interconnection line that was operationalised on Dec 13 last year. 

Premier Abang Johari Openg:  Reliable electricity is the backbone of economic  development and social wellbeing

Premier Abang Johari Openg said it is a significant milestone in the regional energy landscape.

“This event reflects a long-term strategic investment to enhance energy resilience, strengthen inter-state cooperation and support the sustainable growth of Sarawak, Sabah and the Borneo region as a whole,” he said.

He said the successful delivery is the result of close  coordination and shared commitment between Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and Sabah Electricity, with strong support from both state  governments, the federal government, regulators,  technical teams and project partners throughout the  development and implementation of the  interconnection.

“With this interconnection, we take another important  step forward together towards sustainable growth  and prosperity for the region,” the premier said.

Abang Johari emphasised that  reliable electricity is the backbone of economic  development and social wellbeing, adding it powers  industries, enables businesses to grow, supports  public essential services, and sustains the daily lives  of the communities.

“Sarawak is blessed with abundant, predominantly  renewable energy resources, particularly  hydropower.

“With its strength in renewable energy,  Sarawak is well-positioned to its share power  resources with our Borneo neighbours – Sabah,  Brunei and Kalimantan, for our common benefits,” he said.

He said the shared milestone with Sabah builds on  Sarawak’s experience in cross-border power  cooperation.

The premier said since 2016, Sarawak has been exporting electricity  to West Kalimantan, marking our first cross-border  power interconnection.

“This decade-long partnership  has demonstrated the tangible benefits of regional  energy cooperation, including improved system  reliability, more efficient resource utilisation,  stronger cross-border relationships and enhanced  sustainability outcomes through reduced reliance on  carbon-intensive generation,” he added.