NEWS & UPDATE

KAPIT
26 APRIL 2025

As part of its commitment to responsible and inclusive development, Sarawak Energy continues to prioritise sustainable social impact management alongside the development of the Baleh Hydroelectric Project (HEP) and the Baleh – Mapai transmission line.

From 25 - 26 April 2025, Sarawak Energy conducted a series of community-focused programmes in Kapit, in collaboration with government agencies and local institutions, reflecting its long-term approach to capacity building and community support where it operates.

A closing ceremony was held at Fort Sylvia, Kapit, on 26 April to mark the conclusion of the Baleh Community Fibreglass Boat Training, a collaboration with the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS). Running from 19 to 26 April, the programme equips over 20 local participants with practical skills in fibreglass boat construction and maintenance, aiming to provide technical expertise that supports livelihood opportunities. As part of the ceremony, participants launched the two fibreglass boats they built during the training at the Rajang River.

The event then proceeded with a visit to the Baleh Early Literacy and Numeracy Programme, conducted in partnership with i-CATS University College and the Tun Jugah Foundation. Targeting both children and adults, the programme currently benefits 30 individuals by strengthening foundational learning through structured modules and guidance from trained local facilitators, promoting inclusive education and supporting lifelong learning among the Baleh and Kapit communities.

Speaking at the event, Elvis Didit, Resident for Kapit, said, "Our ongoing efforts in Kapit reflect a broader commitment to community development, including skills training, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation and learning support. These initiatives, in collaboration with Sarawak Energy and partners, are tailored to local needs and aim to drive long-term progress in Kapit."

Ir. Pramod Kumar Karunakaran, Sarawak Energy’s Executive Vice President for Project Delivery, emphasised the Group’s ongoing commitment to meaningful community engagement: “At Sarawak Energy, we are committed to ensuring that the impact of our projects extends beyond infrastructure. We strive to create opportunities, empower communities and support initiatives that bring about lasting, positive change. The communities surrounding the Baleh HEP are integral to our journey and we will continue to work alongside our key partners to deliver long-term value.”

Also present were Ir. Tan Hang Kiak, Sarawak Energy’s General Manager for Baleh HEP; Cerisologo Sabut, District Officer for Kapit; Jabang Juntan, District Officer for Bukit Mabong; Timothy Barat, Chief for Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) Kapit; Dr. Nadianatra Musa, Chief Academic Officer for Industry & ESG Academy CENTEXS; Associate Professor Dr. Siti Zaliha Reduan, Dean for Faculty of Education i-CATS University College; Professor Dr. Hasbee Haji Usop, Professor for Faculty of Education i-CATS University College, along with other representatives.

Earlier on 25 April, a walkabout was held at Dewan Muhibbah, Kapit, to showcase the ongoing Baleh Artisan Skills Training programme. Implemented in partnership with Kolej Komuniti Mas Gading (KKMG), the initiative supports 10 local women artisans by providing training in modern design, business skills and traditional Pua Kumbu weaving. Besides training, participants also receive financial support, guidance from industry professionals and opportunities to showcase their work at national-level exhibitions.

Sarawak Energy’s community development initiatives are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), integrating sustainability across its operations. Its community welfare programmes in Baleh and Kapit were recognised at the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) 2024 in Vietnam, reflecting the impact of its social investment efforts in key areas, including education and young people; environmental management and conservation; culture and heritage preservation; community development and entrepreneurship.

Presentation of participation certificates to participants of the Baleh Artisan Skills Training Programme.

Group photo with participants of the Baleh Community Fibreglass Boat Training, featuring one of the boats constructed during the programme.

Group photo with participants of the Baleh Community Fibreglass Boat Training (in collaboration with CENTEXS) and the Baleh Artisan Skills Training Programme (organised in partnership with Kolej Komuniti Mas Gading) at Dewan Muhibbah, Kapit.

Ir. Pramod Kumar Karunakaran, Sarawak Energy’s Executive Vice President for Project Delivery, emphasised the Group’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that the impact of its projects extends beyond infrastructure, striving to create opportunities, empower communities and support initiatives that deliver lasting, positive change.

Elvis Didit, Resident for Kapit, stated that ongoing efforts in Kapit reflect a broader commitment to community development, including skills training, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation and educational support. He noted that these locally tailored initiatives, in collaboration with Sarawak Energy and its partners, aim to drive long-term progress in Kapit.

Visit to the Baleh Early Literacy and Numeracy Programme, held in partnership with i-CATS University College and the Tun Jugah Foundation. Benefiting 30 individuals, the programme focuses on foundational learning, supporting lifelong education.

Launch of one of the fibreglass boats constructed during the Baleh Community Fibreglass Boat Training into the Rajang River, together with participants and key partners.

Group photo following the conclusion of the launch ceremony for the Baleh Community Fibreglass Boat Training at Fort Sylvia in Kapit, attended by approximately 100 guests, including Watson Awan Jalai, Political Secretary to the Premier; representatives from the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication; other officials; and community leaders.