KOTA KINABALU: Former Tanjung Papat state assemblyman Datuk Frankie Poon has voiced strong backing for Yayasan Pengguna Negara Malaysia (YPNM) Sabah’s appeal to the Federal Government, calling for equitable access to the SuRIA Home Programme’s rooftop solar rebate incentives for consumers in Sabah.
The rebate initiative, recently introduced under the national renewable energy drive, offers subsidies of up to RM3,000 to encourage households to adopt solar power.
Poon described the policy as a constructive step that can help lower electricity bills and advance cleaner energy use across the country.
Yet, he emphasized that residents of Sabah must not be overlooked in the rollout of such nationwide programmes.
With rising electricity tariffs and recurring power supply issues, solar energy solutions are particularly vital for Sabah’s homes and businesses, he noted in a statement issued today.
He highlighted Sabah’s strong potential for solar power generation, thanks to its favorable geographic position and consistent sunlight throughout the year.
Wider adoption of rooftop solar systems in the state, he said, could lessen reliance on fossil fuels, enhance long-term energy stability, and support national environmental objectives.
Poon called on the Federal Government, the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), SEDA Malaysia, the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS), and Sabah Electricity to confirm clearly that Sabah residents will have the same eligibility and access to the SuRIA Home incentives as those in other parts of Malaysia.
He also urged authorities to simplify application processes and technical guidelines to encourage broader participation, especially among homeowners in urban, suburban, and remote areas.
Sabah, he stressed, should be fully integrated into Malaysia’s renewable energy transition.
“Ensuring fair access to green energy benefits will not only assist local consumers but also help create a more sustainable, reliable, and cost-effective energy system for both the state and the nation.
“Given the right support and inclusion in policy planning, Sabah has the potential to become a key player in Malaysia’s solar energy development,” he added.
