KOTA SAMARAHAN: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) has set an ambitious goal of achieving 30% renewable energy usage in its operations by 2026, vice-chancellor Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit said.
Currently, only around 2 to 3 per cent of Unimas’ operations rely on renewable energy, with its main initiative being the solar-powered Central Unimas Building for Educators (CUBE).
“Our CUBE building uses solar panels to generate electricity, and we are expanding this initiative.
“Two projects, costing approximately RM1 million, are in progress. One involves powering the Chancellery Building, and the other focuses on a depot for our campus vehicles, where solar energy will be used for street lighting around the compound.
“For the next two or three years, we are targeting about 30 per cent of our energy consumption to come from renewable sources. We are also working with industry partners on this aspect,” he told Sarawak Tribune in an interview at the Chancellory Building today (Dec 26).
He noted that solar energy would also power streetlights along the route from the East Campus to the West Campus, with the project expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
These initiatives, he said, would help reduce Unimas’ carbon footprint while aligning with its new strategic plan for 2026–2030.
“Gradually, we have installed solar-powered streetlights, connecting the colleges to the faculties. About 80 per cent of this project has been completed which will improve safety and accessibility for students at night.”
Dr Ahmad Hata further highlighted that sustainability is a core element of Unimas’ strategic plan, and the university is actively exploring ways to integrate renewable energy into its curriculum, research and daily campus activities.
He said the newly established Institute of Renewable Energy and Sustainability is leading these efforts, working closely with the Unimas Community Sustainability Unit to implement sustainable practices.
“For example, our academic programmes, comprising 47 undergraduate and 54 postgraduate courses, incorporate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We also emphasise on service learning to ensure students contribute to sustainability initiatives.”
Furthermore, green technology and waste management are other key components of the university’s sustainability agenda.
“We have started monitoring waste management across our colleges, identifying areas with high waste levels, and transforming waste into useful products as part of a circular economy approach.”
The Institute of Renewable Energy and Sustainability also collaborates with Sarawak agencies to provide expert advice to advance sustainability efforts in the state.
Its focus, he said, extends beyond the environment to include financial and social sustainability.
“By working with the local community, we ensure our initiatives positively impact both society and the environment.”
