SEDC energy inks MOU for high-end graphite plant

SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Sarawak Economic Development Corp (SEDC), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Gallois New Energy Materials (M) Sdn Bhd to build a high-end graphite manufacturing plant in Bintulu, Sarawak.

The plant, which is to be located in Samalaju Industrial Park (SIP), will produce spherical natural graphite and synthetic graphite, involving a total investment of Rm6.3bil, said SEDC Energy in a statement in conjunction with the MOU signing ceremony yesterday.

“This strategic move, as outlined in the MOU, focuses on high-end graphite products, with a planned three-stage development launching in 2025, subject to the 100-megawatt power availability, leveraging Sarawak’s infrastructure advantages, including low-cost and renewable hydropower,” the company said.

It said the collaboration would see both parties exploring opportunities in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, which would enhance capability and sustain growth for the state.

“Simultaneously, Gallois’ choice of Sarawak for a high-end graphite manufacturing plant in SIP aims to establish the state as a major global graphite source of carbon-neutral, high-purity anode materials outside of China to meet the rising demand for sustainable and cost-effective graphite supply in the expanding EV battery markets.

“China, which accounts for more than 95% of high-end graphite products from global producers, has started to restrict the export of the products since last December.

“As such, there is currently high demand for high-end graphite manufacturing from supply chains outside of China, thus, making Sarawak a major force in the sector,” it said.

SEDC Energy said the collaboration is poised to generate economic opportunities and job creation, as well as attract

Ev-related investments, positioning the state as an EV transformation hub.

“This significant initiative is expected to transform Bintulu’s economic landscape, creating more than 1,000 high-skilled job opportunities for the local community,” it added.

The MOU was signed by SEDC Energy chief executive officer Robert Hardin and Gallois New Energy director Chai Ming Chen, and witnessed by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Also present were SEDC chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Husain and Gallois Group of Companies president George Lu.

SEDC Energy, being a frontrunner in sustainable energy initiatives, has engaged in various ventures specialising in new energy and downstream oil and gas marketing and trading, solidifying its position as a key player in Malaysia’s energy landscape.

Among its ventures are the production of crude algae oil, sustainable aviation fuel, biomass and hydrogen supply. — Bernama