KUCHING (Oct 13): The Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) has been called on to research the possibility of turning oil palm waste into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg suggested Salcra explore developing a hybrid fuel using palm-derived fatty acids and hydrocarbons.

According to him, the proposal could open a new business avenue, allowing Salcra to move beyond conventional oil palm cultivation into higher-value downstream activities.

“Imagine if we succeed in developing hybrid aviation fuel … Salcra could become the Aramco of Sarawak,” he said during Salcra’s Golden Jubilee Gala Dinner here on Monday.

He said oil palm produces free fatty acids that could serve as raw materials for aviation fuel, although research would be needed to determine the feasibility of blending them with hydrocarbons.

Abang Johari said Salcra could build on its existing assets by processing oil palm waste into other products such as fertiliser and biomass, while investigating other potential uses.

“We must look wider on the business of Salcra as the proposed research could transform the authority’s operations and create additional business opportunities,” he said.

Pointing out that Sarawak had passed legislation on waste-to-energy last year, the Premier said this provided a wider context for exploring ways to convert agricultural waste into economically valuable products.

He stressed that Sarawak should be willing to explore new technologies and business models to strengthen its economy.

“The development of new downstream businesses could help Salcra expand its economic contribution beyond its traditional role in oil palm cultivation,” he added.

Among those present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai; former deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang; and Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund deputy chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi Jugah.