Hydrogen-powered Kuching ART system set for end of 2025

The Premier of Sarawak Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced today that the Kuching ART system is expected to commence commercial operations by the end of 2025.

This cutting-edge transportation system, featuring trackless trams with rubber tires, will traverse the city streets on the tarmac, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to conventional rail-based systems.

With its potential to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions, the ART system is set to transform the way people commute between Kuching and Kota Samarahan.

Milestones in Kuching ART system development

The Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project, specifically Phase 1, is progressing steadily. In May, Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin highlighted the completion status of the three ART lines: Blue Line, Red Line, and Green Line.

PHASE 1 of the KUTS project, which involves the design, construction and commissioning of the three Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) lines, was 8.25 per cent completed as of the first quarter of this year

With a total length of 69.9 kilometres, these lines will connect critical destinations within Kuching and are expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively.

Lee expressed his confidence that the collaboration with China in developing the ART system will transform the transportation landscape in Sarawak. Being the first city outside China to adopt a hydrogen-powered ART system, Kuching will benefit from Chinese expertise and guidance.

Promoting green hydrogen and sustainable transport

Abang Johari also announced that the state aims to commence large-scale commercial production of green hydrogen by 2027. Collaborating with Korea on this project, Sarawak is on track to become a leader in the production of clean energy.

The Star reported that Sarawak is working closely with Japan to produce green hydrogen for domestic use as well as export to Japan and Singapore. The state was planning to accelerate the use of greener hydrogen energy sources with the goal of becoming the first hydrogen-driven economy in South-East Asia.

The premier also emphasized the numerous advantages that Sarawak stands to gain by transitioning to a hydrogen-based economy. These benefits include a significant reduction in carbon emissions, strengthening energy security, and promising prospects for economic expansion and employment generation.

With the expected commercial operations by the end of 2025, the ART system will tackle traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions, contributing to a greener and cleaner environment.