High initial costs challenge electric boat transport adoption

KUCHING : High initial costs remain a key challenge in adopting electric boats for river transportation in Sarawak, although the technology offers potential benefits for tourism, passenger services and water-based rescue operations.

Deputy Transport Minister, Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the transition to green energy would involve substantial upfront costs, but stressed that investment was necessary as Sarawak explored more sustainable river transport solutions.

He said future developments, including hybrid technology combining electric power with hydrogen, could potentially help reduce costs and improve the viability of electric boats.

“Anything that changes always has to come with cost. So hopefully, Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) will continue to do the research and find the best option for river transport system on green energy,” he said.

Henry was speaking during a visit to observe and test SEB’s electric boat operations at Pangkalan Sapi Jetty here today.

The electric boat, developed through SEB’s design and proposal, can accommodate about 10 passengers and is intended for use on rivers and sheltered water bodies rather than open seas.

Henry said he had personally tested and driven the boat, describing it as reliable and suitable for river transportation.

He added that the technology could offer new opportunities for tourism, with the boat potentially providing short sightseeing rides lasting between 10 and 20 minutes.

“The electric boat could also be used for recreational activities and as a rescue vessel during regattas and other water-based events, particularly in lakes and sheltered waterways,” he said.

On charging facilities, Henry said a charging station with 10 units was available near Mintangom to support electric boat operations in the area.

He noted that electric ‘tambang’ services had already been operating locally for more than a year, following their introduction by Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) through the ‘tambang’ operator.

According to him, the existing services had been operating satisfactorily, with the battery-powered vessels offering quieter journeys without the usual engine noise.

Henry said the latest electric boat could further support Sarawak’s efforts to promote environmentally friendly river transportation, provided continued research identified suitable and cost-effective solutions.

“Meanwhile, Sarawak River Board (SRB) will issue the necessary permit, while the Marine Department Malaysia will license the operator to allow the electric boat to be stationed at Pangkalan Sapi during the upcoming regatta period,” he said.

Henry said visitors would be welcome to experience the boat, subject to the necessary arrangements and approvals.

He expressed hope that continued research and development would help make electric-powered vessels a more practical option for Sarawak’s River transport system.