Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Gas Distribution Rights in Sarawak
Resolving Long-Standing Issues
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated that issues related to Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) regarding gas distribution rights in Sarawak have been resolved through a series of negotiations, including his meeting with Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
No Ambiguity in Policy Matters
According to Anwar, there is no ambiguity in policy matters, noting that the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974) applies nationwide and is accepted by both the Sarawak state government and Petros.
Petros Established for Gas Exploration and Distribution Initiatives
Anwar emphasized that Petros was established to enable Sarawak to pursue its own gas exploration and distribution initiatives. This allows the state government to take control of gas distribution for domestic purposes, while Petronas retains its authority nationwide.
Sarawak Gas Distribution Ordinance 2016 Does Not Supersede Federal Laws
Anwar clarified that the Sarawak Gas Distribution Ordinance 2016 does not supersede the PDA 1974, the Federal Constitution, or other federal laws. This means that Petronas’ position remains unaffected, and the company retains its authority in the oil and gas industry.
Meeting with Sarawak Premier
On January 1, 2025, Anwar met with the Sarawak Premier to resolve issues related to gas distribution in the state. The Prime Minister assured that the meeting resulted in a comprehensive understanding and addressed all concerns.
Cooperation between Petronas and Petros
Anwar explained that while Petros has been granted authority as a gas aggregator, it will not interfere with Petronas’ existing operations. Petronas retains its authority nationwide, while Petros takes control of gas distribution for domestic purposes. This cooperation between the two entities enables the development of new projects, including hydrogen ventures and other efforts within Malaysia.
Confidence in Resolving Future Issues
Anwar expressed confidence that no further issues would arise, as negotiations for other projects remain commercial in nature. The Prime Minister assured that his government’s policy is to respect the rights of Petronas and Petros in their respective domains.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ensured that issues related to gas distribution rights in Sarawak have been resolved through a series of negotiations. The cooperation between Petronas and Petros is expected to result in the development of new projects, while Petronas’ position remains unaffected.
FAQs
Q: What is the outcome of the meeting between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg?
A: The meeting resulted in a comprehensive understanding and addressed all concerns related to gas distribution rights in Sarawak.
Q: Does the Sarawak Gas Distribution Ordinance 2016 supersede federal laws?
A: No, the ordinance does not supersede the PDA 1974, the Federal Constitution, or other federal laws. Petronas’ position remains unaffected.
Q: How does the cooperation between Petronas and Petros work?
A: Petros takes control of gas distribution for domestic purposes, while Petronas retains its authority nationwide. Petronas also involves Petros in exploration, hydrogen ventures, and other efforts within Malaysia.
Q: Are there any concerns about granting Petros sole authority as a gas aggregator in Sarawak?
A: No, as any related projects—particularly those requiring substantial financing—will inevitably involve Petronas.