NEWS & UPDATE

KOTA KINABALU
24 JANUARY 2026

Grid integration in Borneo has entered a new phase with the energisation of the Sarawak-Sabah Power Grid Interconnection, linking the two state grids and strengthening electricity reliability across the region. This development contributes to long-term energy security and powers socio-economic growth for both Sarawak and Sabah.

The official ceremony marking the energisation was held on 24 January at the Sabah International Convention Centre in Kota Kinabalu.

Speaking at the ceremony, The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak said: “The energisation of the Sarawak-Sabah Interconnection reflects our ongoing efforts to develop reliable and secure energy systems for the region. By linking our two grids, we are creating stronger operational flexibility and supporting long-term development for both states. This interconnection builds on the experience we have gained through earlier regional links and demonstrates how coordinated planning can deliver practical benefits for Borneo.”

In his address, The Right Honourable Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji bin Haji Noor, Chief Minister of Sabah said: “Sabah fully supports this initiative as it strengthens the reliability and security of our power supply while enhancing operational flexibility between Sabah and Sarawak. The Sarawak-Sabah Interconnection is a strategic step towards ensuring long-term energy security, supporting sustainable development and delivering real benefits to the people and economy of Sabah and continued collaboration between Sabah and Sarawak will be crucial in realising the full potential of regional power grid integration for the long-term prosperity of Sabah and the region.”

Enabled through the 275kV Lawas-Mengalong transmission line, the Sarawak-Sabah Interconnection is part of a 326-kilometre grid expansion comprising 881 transmission towers and associated infrastructure. It follows the commissioning of the 275kV Bunut-Medamit-Lawas transmission lines and the Lawas Substation in November 2025, which enabled the integration of Sarawak’s northern region into the state grid.

Power exchange between Sarawak and Sabah began on 13 December 2025 after successful system synchronisation by the grid system operators of both states. Electricity now flows from Sarawak to Sabah in line with operational requirements and agreed technical parameters, supporting coordinated operations across the shared network and providing the potential for future two-way power flow capability.

This interconnection is the second regional link in Borneo after the Sarawak-West Kalimantan interconnection commissioned in 2016. This new link reflects the commitment of both Sarawak and Sabah to build a more resilient and interconnected power system.

Commenting on the interconnection, Datuk Haji Sharbini Suhaili, Group Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Energy, said: “The Sarawak-Sabah Interconnection builds on Sarawak’s established track record in regional power exchange, including the ongoing link with West Kalimantan, which provides a practical building block for the development of a resilient Borneo Grid. As Sarawak continues to collaborate with its neighbours in Sabah, Brunei and Indonesia’s Kalimantan, these interconnections are moving the Borneo Grid concept from vision to implementation, while also contributing to Malaysia’s broader aspirations under the ASEAN Power Grid initiative.”

Echoing the importance of regional coordination, Datuk Ir. Ts. Mohd Yaakob Haji Jaafar, Chief Executive Officer, Sabah Electricity said: “The interconnection represents a strategic milestone in strengthening energy cooperation between the two states in which through closer technical, operational and policy coordination, the interconnection will enable more efficient sharing of generation resources, improve overall grid stability, and enhance the resilience of the power system, particularly during peak demand periods or supply disruptions and this collaborative effort not only delivers immediate operational benefits, but also positions both states to support future economic growth, industrial development and regional energy integration in line with national aspirations and the broader Borneo power grid connectivity vision.”

The interconnection currently supplies up to 50 MW from Sarawak to Sabah, with capacity to increase subject to system readiness and future planning considerations. This initial arrangement supports ongoing system planning as both states continue strengthening their grids.

A more interconnected network enables both states to manage system operations more effectively, particularly during planned maintenance or system contingencies. As Borneo’s energy infrastructure continues to expand, the interconnection serves as an important step toward a more coordinated and reliable regional grid.

The interconnection also provides the foundation for future regional connectivity. Proposed interconnections with Brunei, Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia are at various stages of planning and feasibility, contributing to wider efforts to enhance energy exchange and support the development of the ASEAN Power Grid.

Together, these initiatives help strengthen Borneo’s energy landscape and support the region’s transition toward a more connected and sustainable future.

Official Ceremony for the Energisation of the Sarawak-Sabah Interconnection Project at Sabah International Convention Centre.