Kuching’s iconic river boats go green with new electric-powered ‘penambang’ fleet under smart city initiative

Kuching’s iconic river boats go green with new electric-powered ‘penambang’ fleet under smart city initiative

KUCHING, Aug 31 — Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his family yesterday boarded the state’s first electric-powered ‘penambang’, the E-Penambang, marking a key step in Kuching’s move toward sustainable and smart mobility.

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KUCHING, Aug 31 — Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his family yesterday boarded the state’s first electric-powered ‘penambang’, the E-Penambang, marking a key step in Kuching’s move toward sustainable and smart mobility.

A press statement described the initiative as an upgrade of the city’s iconic river transport into a safer, more efficient, and eco-friendly mode of travel, while preserving the traditional design of the ‘perahu tambang’.

During the visit, Abang Johari received a briefing from Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) on the operations of the new fleet. The service currently consists of nine electric boats supported by a solar-powered charging station at the Pontoon Jetty in Kampung Sungai Bintangor.

DBKU and SEB noted that the introduction of the E-Penambang is part of Kuching’s Smart City strategy under the Smart City Mobility component and will help reduce the carbon footprint of river transport.

Also present were Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication (Sarawak Energy and Petros) Datuk Ibrahim Baki, Kuching North Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman, DBKU director Ramzi Abdillah, DBKU Infrastructure Services deputy director Ts. Mohamad Faisal Adenan, along with senior officers from Sarawak Energy Berhad. — The Borneo Post

Abang Johari (right) with other Sarawak officials take the first ride in the state’s first smart city electric ‘penambang’ fleet in Kuching on August 30, 2025. — The Borneo Post pic

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