Negotiations Over Gas Rights: A Call for National Interests
PETALING JAYA: Sarawak Bersatu head Jaziri Alkaf Abdillah Suffian has urged all parties to prioritize national interests in resolving the deadlock in negotiations over gas rights between Petronas and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros).
The Stalemate
The negotiations, announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in the Dewan Rakyat last month, aim to appoint Petros as the gas aggregator for Sarawak. However, a source claims that the Sarawak government is insisting that all domestic gas users comply with the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (DGO) and buy their gas from Petros, which may affect Petronas’s existing domestic and international contracts.
A Call for Pragmatism
Jaziri emphasized that negotiations are built on mutual respect and good faith, and that extreme voices and actions are not welcome, as they could derail a win-win outcome for Malaysia and Sarawak. He urged parties to set aside their frustrations and work towards a quick and fair resolution of the current dispute.
The Bigger Picture
Jaziri stressed that the issue is a national one, and that all parties should look at the bigger picture. He noted that looking out for Sarawak’s interests only is not beneficial to Sarawak in the long run, as both Petronas and Petros need to work together for long-term economic prosperity in Sarawak.
Capacity and Competence
Jaziri also highlighted that Petros does not yet have sufficient talent and capacity to run Sarawak’s oil and gas industry without support from Petronas. He emphasized that investors view Malaysia favourably, and that if Malaysia loses its investment viability, Sarawak will also lose.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jaziri’s call for pragmatism and national interests in resolving the gas rights dispute is a timely reminder of the importance of cooperation and mutual understanding in achieving a win-win outcome for all parties involved.
FAQs
Q: What is the current stalemate in negotiations over gas rights between Petronas and Petros?
A: The negotiations aim to appoint Petros as the gas aggregator for Sarawak, but a source claims that the Sarawak government is insisting that all domestic gas users comply with the DGO and buy their gas from Petros, which may affect Petronas’s existing domestic and international contracts.
Q: What is Jaziri’s stance on the issue?
A: Jaziri urges all parties to prioritize national interests, set aside their frustrations, and work towards a quick and fair resolution of the current dispute.
Q: What is the significance of looking at the bigger picture in this issue?
A: Looking at the bigger picture emphasizes that the issue is a national one, and that all parties should consider the long-term benefits of cooperation and mutual understanding in achieving a win-win outcome for all parties involved.