Sabah Electricity to Launch Southeast Asia’s Largest Battery Energy Storage System in July

KOTA KINABALU, March 27 — Sabah Electricity’s 100-megawatt (MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), the largest of its kind in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, is expected to commence operations in July this year.

Chief Executive Officer Ir. Ts. Mohd Yaakob Jaafar stated that the Lahad Datu-based project, which began construction in September 2024, will enhance the potential for renewable energy generation, particularly solar power.

“This battery system will help stabilize electricity supply for users on the East Coast of Sabah, where power shortages have been a persistent issue,” he said during a media briefing following a courtesy visit to Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Istana Sri Kinabalu yesterday.

During the event, Yaakob also handed over RM3.85 million in business zakat from Sabah Electricity’s 2023 profits to the Zakat and Fitrah Division of the Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS).

Additionally, he urged the public to be cautious with home electrical wiring, especially during Ramadan, when short circuits frequently cause fires. “Always engage licensed contractors for electrical work,” he advised.

Earlier, Tun Musa witnessed the Sabah Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) and its subsidiaries contribute RM300,000 in business zakat for 2024 to MUIS. The donation was received by MUIS chairman Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin.

SEDCO Chairman Datuk Rubin Balang emphasized that the contribution reflects the corporation’s dedication to socio-economic development and supporting underprivileged communities. — The Borneo Post