Image credit: Jasmine Fong (Wah Piang)
The Sarawak government is evaluating a proposal from Grab (Malaysia) Limited to introduce a Grab Sampan Proof of Concept (PoC) along Sungai Sarawak. The initiative aims to modernise traditional river transport by integrating electric-propulsion sampans with digital booking and cashless payment systems.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the pilot project seeks to enhance first- and last-mile connectivity while preserving the cultural heritage of river-crossing services in Kuching. His speech was delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian during the Sarawak Rivers Day Conference (SRDC) 2025.
Scope of Grab Sampan six-month pilot at Kuching Waterfront
Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said innovation is essential to keeping river transport relevant in the digital age. He confirmed that the Grab Sampan PoC will run for six months, covering eight designated pick-up and drop-off points along the Kuching Waterfront.
The initiative aims to improve:
- First- and last-mile connectivity
- Safety and reliability
- Heritage and tourism mobility
Lee added that the Sarawak Transport Ministry and the Sarawak Rivers Board will assess the proposal to ensure it aligns with the state’s long-term transport goals.
Honouring tradition through innovation
Abang Johari noted that the Grab Electric Sampan PoC represents a modern reinterpretation of Sarawak’s iconic rivercraft. By pairing electric propulsion with digital platforms, the state hopes to improve convenience and sustainability along the Sarawak River.
He emphasised the centrality of rivers to Sarawak’s history and identity, pointing out that the state has 40 major river basins covering more than 123,000 sq km.
Infrastructure and clean water initiatives
The Premier highlighted ongoing efforts under the RM10 billion Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme, which aims to achieve 100% access to treated water by 2030. Riverfront revitalisation projects are also progressing in Sibu, Kapit, Simanggang, Marudi and Limbang to enhance urban liveability and connectivity.
Clean energy through cascading dam initiative
Abang Johari introduced the Cascading Dam Initiative, a new approach to generating small-scale hydropower using natural river gradients.
- The first pilot will take place at Sungai Gaat in Kapit, with the local community agreeing in principle to participate.
- Initial studies indicate Sarawak has up to 3 gigawatts of cascading hydro potential across selected sites.
- The model allows 5–10% community equity participation through a trust, ensuring revenue from clean energy returns to local residents for education, infrastructure and social development.
River management and flood mitigation measures
The Premier also outlined several river management initiatives currently underway, including:
- Digital surveillance systems
- Vessel tracking technology
- Smart hydrological sensors
- Introduction of electric or hybrid vessels for urban river transport
He reiterated the importance of community involvement through Friends of Rivers (FoRS), eco-tourism programmes and environmental education activities.
Towards sustainable and inclusive mobility
Lee emphasised that the proposed project demonstrates how innovation and digitalisation can rejuvenate traditional river transport, providing sustainable and inclusive mobility solutions for communities along the Sarawak River.
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Source: The Borneo Post
