SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), a state government agency, has entered into an MoU with Gallois New Energy Materials (M) Sdn Bhd, a Malaysian exporter of natural graphite, to establish a graphite manufacturing facility worth MYR 6.1 billion (USD 1.3 billion) in Bintulu, Sarawak state. This initiative aligns with Sarawak’s objective to emerge as a prominent global source of carbon-neutral, high-purity anode materials, meeting the escalating demand for high-end graphite manufacturing outside China.
Situated within the Samalaju Industrial Park (SIP), the plant will specialize in the production of spherical natural graphite and synthetic graphite, requiring a total investment of USD 1.5 billion. The MOU outlines a strategic approach with a focus on high-end graphite products, scheduled for a three-stage development set to commence in 2025, contingent upon the availability of a 100-megawatt power supply. Leveraging Sarawak’s infrastructure advantages, including cost-effective and renewable hydropower, this collaboration is also poised to explore opportunities within the electric vehicle (EV) industry.
SEDC Energy’s collaboration is expected to create jobs and attract EV investments, positioning the state as an EV hub. This initiative will generate over 1,000 high-skilled jobs in Bintulu, bolstering the local economy. With a focus on sustainability, SEDC Energy is a key player in Malaysia’s energy sector, engaging in ventures ranging from new energy to downstream oil and gas trading. Sarawak aims to become a major global supplier of carbon-neutral anode materials, filling the gap left by China’s export restrictions on high-end graphite products.
(Sources: Sarawak Government; New Sarawak Tribune)
