KOTA KINABALU: Tanjong Papat Assemblyman Alex Thien has voiced his opposition to any proposal to develop coal-fired power plants in Sabah, stressing that the state must focus on long-term, sustainable energy solutions instead of relying on outdated and polluting technologies.
Commenting on recent discussions regarding coal as one of Sabah’s possible energy options, Alex said coal may appear to be a short-term solution, but in reality it carries high long-term economic, environmental, and energy security risks.
“Coal should not be Sabah’s long-term direction. Although it is one of the options available for power generation, the overall Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) for coal is no longer as competitive as before when compared with other generation sources,” he said.
He pointed out that Sabah does not have sufficient domestic coal resources and would remain highly dependent on imported fuel supplies if coal plants were developed.
“This creates major fuel security concerns. Sabah would be exposed to international coal price fluctuations, currency exchange risks, and external supply disruptions. Our energy future should not depend heavily on imported fuel,” he added.
Alex also highlighted the environmental impact associated with coal power generation and coal mining activities.
“Coal plants contribute to air pollution and environmental degradation. At the same time, coal mining activities around the world are often linked to deforestation, river pollution, and ecological destruction. Sabah is known for its rich biodiversity and natural environment, and we must protect these assets for future generations,” he said.
Instead, he urged the Sabah government to prioritise long-term energy planning by expanding cleaner and more sustainable generation sources that are better suited to Sabah and Sarawak’s natural advantages.
According to him, large-scale hydropower remains one of the cheapest and most stable sources of firm power in the long run despite requiring high initial capital investment.
“Sabah and Sarawak are blessed with abundant river resources. Although hydro projects require high upfront costs, they can provide stable and low-cost electricity for decades. In the long term, this gives Sabah stronger energy stability and economic value,” he said.
Alex said Sarawak has already demonstrated a successful long-term energy model through its investment in hydropower generation capacity and energy infrastructure.
“Sarawak is a good example of how long-term planning can reduce electricity costs, strengthen energy security, and create economic opportunities. Today, Sarawak is not only generating sufficient electricity for its own development but is also exporting electricity to Sabah. They are even planning for wider regional power exports to Brunei, Singapore, and Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.
He added that Sabah should study and adapt similar long-term strategies instead of depending on imported coal-based generation.
Alex also noted that solar energy is becoming increasingly attractive in East Malaysia due to favourable daytime solar irradiation and land availability, while gas combined-cycle power plants (CCGTs) would still play an important role in maintaining grid stability and supporting renewable energy integration.
“The Sabah government should focus on building a balanced and future-orientated energy mix. Renewable energy such as solar, biogas, and biomass, supported by stable gas generation and suitable hydropower development, is a far more sustainable pathway than coal,” he said.
He stressed that Sabah’s energy policy must be planned with a long-term perspective that balances affordability, energy security, environmental protection, and economic sustainability.
“We must think beyond short-term power shortages and focus on what kind of energy future we want Sabah to have over the next 20 to 30 years,” he added.
