KUCHING (May 13): Sarawak is promoting circular construction practices that emphasises on the principle of ‘Waste Not, Build Smart’, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
“We have spent decades in a linear world: extract, build, and discard. But that model is no longer sustainable. Circular construction is the new blueprint ― it promotes reusing building waste on-site, repurposing packaging from suppliers, prioritizing local materials that reduce both emissions and logistics risks.
“Imagine a building where nothing is wasted, where every tile and timber tells a story of reuse,” he said in his keynote address titled ‘Transforming Sarawak: Advancing Sustainable Construction and Renewable Energy for a Greener Future, at the International Construction Week (ICW) Borneo Edition held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
The ICW Borneo Edition was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and was also attended by Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
Awang Tengah also noted that the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly vital, as Sarawak aims to leverage these tools to enhance operational efficiency.
“(This), in turn, improves sustainability performance right from the planning to the implementation and monitoring stages of a project. Sarawak also encourages the use of technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Industrialised Building Systems (IBS),” he added.
He further emphasized that the foundation of any sustainable project begins with responsible site selection ― an ethical and strategic decision that influences the development’s long-term impact.
“A well-chosen site supports biodiversity, avoids flood zones, and reduces reliance on cars by ensuring access to public transportation.
“When we decide where to build, we shape not only the physical landscape but also define our sustainability values and aspirations,” he said.
Awang Tengah highlighted that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process serves as both a regulatory requirement and a planning tool for prescribed activities. He stressed that the process ensures rigorous environmental screening before a project is allowed to proceed.
“In transforming Sarawak into a greener and more sustaianable state, engineers must consider our unique topography, slope gradients, and soil conditions, especially when designing critical infrastructure such as roads and bridges. These geotechnical and environmental factors are essential for long-term sustainability and resilience,” he explained.
He clarified that the EIA process is not meant to hinder development but to guide responsibly.
“By fostering strong partnerships among government agencies, industry players, and the public, we are committed to protecting our environment.
“Together, we must ensure that today’s development does not come at the expense of future generations, but rather lays the foundation for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Sarawak,” he added.
Awang Tengah also pointed out that while sustainable buildings are important, the supporting infrastructure ― roads, drainage, and digital systems must also be built with resilience in mind.
“A building may be green, but if it is not connected to a sustainable infrastructure, the job is only half done. True sustainability demands a holistic approach ― one that intrergrates the building with its surrounding ecosystem, connects infrastructure with people and the environment, and is functional, practical, safe, and most importantly, beautiful,” he said.
He also informed the audience that Sarawak has introduced the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions) Ordinance 2023 to regulate and control greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across key economic sectors.
“This marks a significant step forward in Sarawak’s journey towards a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy,” he added. Credit: Borneo Post Online