SABAH Chief Minister Hajiji Noor said the state’s Ulu Padas Hydroelectric Dam project – which is expected to generate 187.5 megawatts of electricity upon completion in 2029 – is considered a long-term solution as it would would contribute to an additional 15% of supply, representing a significant increase.

He said a study is also underway to explore the dam’s potential to supply up to six billion litres of clean water per day in the state.

“It is important as a major contributor to the renewable energy. Once completed, the dam is expected to meet the increasing demand for electricity.

“Not only does it meet our increasing energy demand, it is also critical for the oil and gas industry in Sabah and the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park, thereby driving the economic growth of the state,” he said during the groundbreaking ceremony officiated by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Tenom today.

Present were Deputy Chief Minister I Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah, Sarawak Affairs and Special Functions) Armizan Mohd Ali, and Sabah Energy Corporation Sdn Bhd (SEC) chairman Annuar Ayub.

The dam, with a reservoir area of 1,905sq km, is developed by UPP Holdings Sdn Bhd through a collaboration with SEC (a government subsidiary), Gamuda Berhad, and Kerjaya Kagum Hitech JV Sdn Bhd.

Hajiji said by harnessing the existing hydro potential, the Ulu Padas Hydroelectric Dam is expected to serve as a catalyst for a broad transformation in Sabah.

“It is also a step towards improving the quality of life and our readiness to propel Sabah into a new era of progress. This project will have positive spill-over effects on the local economy in terms of job creation, increased income for the people, and entrepreneurship opportunities,” he said. – Bernama, December 7, 2023.