Sarawak Energy has completed Phase 1 of Project Pak Tambang (e-Sampan), a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative led by its Research and Development (R&D) division. This project focuses on preserving the cultural heritage of Kuching’s Old Town and promoting environmental sustainability through the electrification of the city’s iconic perahu tambang.
The presentation and prototype testing of the e-Sampan, conducted by Sarawak Energy, took place at Masjid Hidayatul Rahman, Kampung Gersik on 27 August. The event was officiated by YB Datuk Dr Haji Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication II (Utility), who is also the Pantai Damai assemblyman. Also present was Mohamad Faisal Adenan, Deputy Director of Infrastructure Services for Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara (DBKU).
Initiated in mid-2023, Project Pak Tambang is led by the Emerging Robotics Innovation unit of Sarawak Energy’s R&D division, in collaboration with local sampan operators who had been using this e-sampan since October last year. The project aligns with DBKU’s plans to revitalise Kuching city’s river transportation.
Over a 10-month trial period Sarawak Energy demonstrated the technical feasibility of using an electric motor and battery in place of traditional petrol engine for the perahu tambang. The trial, which involved daily passengers, highlighted several benefits of the e-Sampan, including smoother and quieter operation, as well as the elimination of fuel odours.
“The conversion of traditional petrol engine to electric motors has reduced operational costs by over 80% and also lowered our carbon footprint. During the 10-month trial period, we also saw reduction in carbon emissions, air pollution and noise levels. This aligns well with our vision to “green the grid” and “electrify the fleet,” said Sarawak Energy’s General Manager of R&D, Dr Ng Sing Muk.
Meanwhile, Phase 2 of the Project Pak Tambang initiative, currently on-going, focuses on exploring and piloting charging solutions for the e-Sampan. Other promotional activities are also planned.
Project Pak Tambang (E-Sampan) reflects Sarawak Energy’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation, preserving Kuching’s rich cultural heritage is preserved while moving toward a greener future. This initiative supports the goals of the state government’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which focuses on renewable energy and reducing CO2 emissions through the electrification of Sarawak’s transportation sector.
