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Jentayu Sustainables Berhad is reinforcing its role in Sabah’s renewable energy development with the launch of Project Oriole, a 162-megawatt run-of-river hydroelectric project set to be constructed in Ulu Padas, Sipitang. The project, led by its wholly owned subsidiary Oriole Power Sdn Bhd, marks one of the largest Domestic Direct Investments (DDI) in Sabah’s power sector, with a development cost estimated at just under RM3 billion. Announced during the company’s Hari Raya open house in Kota Kinabalu, Executive Chairman Datuk Beroz Nikmal Mirdin emphasized that the project is fully funded without public financing. Construction is scheduled to commence this year, with commercial operations expected by mid-2029. “This is green power, and over time it will prove highly cost-effective for Sabah,” said Beroz. He further disclosed that the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Sabah Electricity (SE) and the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Commissioning (EPCC) contract are currently in the finalisation phase. Developed in partnership with Yayasan Sabah, the project aims to supply electricity at 31.5 sen per kilowatt-hour—a rate described as competitive within the regional power market. “This project adds 162 MW of clean energy to Sabah’s grid. At a time when power stability is crucial, this is our contribution—not just as a business, but as Sabahans committed to our state’s future,” Beroz stated. Distinguishing it from another hydro project downstream of the Padas River, Beroz noted that Project Oriole occupies the upstream site. “Though developed separately, both projects serve the same mission: powering a greener Sabah,” he said. Beroz also addressed misconceptions about the company’s origins, clarifying that while Jentayu is listed on Bursa Malaysia’s Main Market, its headquarters remains in Kota Kinabalu. “We are Sabah-born. That’s why our corporate open house is held here. Our heart, our people, and our future are in Sabah,” he affirmed. Also present at the event were Sabah’s Head of State, Tun Musa Aman, his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin, and Oriole Power CEO Saridah Mohd Dun. Jentayu already operates two hydroelectric plants—Telekosang 1 and 2—in Tenom, which collectively contribute 40 MW to Sabah’s grid at a competitive rate of 24 sen per kilowatt-hour. During the rainy season, the plants can generate up to 44 MW. Framing Project Oriole as a homegrown initiative, Beroz said, “This is Domestic Direct Investment by Sabahans, for Sabah. We aim not only to stabilise the grid but also to inspire local industries and the younger generation to believe in clean energy and local innovation.” With Project Oriole, Jentayu Sustainables is positioning itself as a central player in Sabah’s transition to a sustainable, locally driven energy landscape. |
