Sarawak’s Stance on Oil and Gas Rights: A Call for Clarity
Former State Attorney-General JC Fong Speaks Out
SUBANG JAYA: Former Sarawak attorney-general JC Fong has spoken out against narratives that depict the state’s efforts to consolidate its oil and gas rights as attempts to undermine Petronas. In a forum titled "Fifty Shades of Federalism" at the Subang National Golf Club, Fong stressed that such claims are not only inaccurate but also detrimental to national integration and unity.
Azalina’s Claim Unverified
Fong took issue with Law and Institutional Reform Minister Azalina Othman Said’s claim that Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg agreed to accept the Petroleum Development Act 1974 to govern the state’s petroleum industry. Fong pointed out that Azalina was not present at the meeting between Abang Johari and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, making her comments in Parliament hearsay. "She should have had the courtesy to refer to Abang Johari or the premier’s office to determine what he has agreed to," Fong said.
Grey Areas Remain
On February 12, Abang Johari stated that there were still matters to be resolved between Petronas and Petros on the issue of oil and gas rights in Sarawak. Fong emphasized that there were still some "grey areas" that both parties must look into, but a resolution was in sight. "There is a sense of finality, but some grey areas remain due to misinformation. In reality, the situation is clear, but misinformation has muddied the waters," he said.
Sarawak’s Rights and Interests
Fong reiterated that Sarawak held the rights to distribute oil and gas, as enshrined under two exemption orders signed under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 discussions during previous federal administrations. He stressed that Sarawak was still engaging the federal government on this matter and the state "knows a way forward that would not hurt Petronas."
Petronas’ Role
Fong also spoke out against narratives that depicted Sarawak’s efforts to consolidate its oil and gas rights as attempts to undermine Petronas. "It’s not true. Petronas is still in charge of manufacturing and exporting LNG. It is weird to say that a Fortune 500 company would be getting into (big) trouble if they lost one business (deal) in Sarawak. All these narratives are not good for national integration and unity. Sarawakians love Malaysia and Sarawak in equal measure," he added.
Gas Utilization
Fong highlighted that the gas produced in Sarawak is not utilized sustainably, as 94% of it is exported to Japan and Korea. He emphasized the importance of retaining natural gas for local use, which would facilitate the implementation of the Sarawak Gas Roadmap. "We would use this gas to generate power and transmit electricity to Peninsular Malaysia, where gas reserves could be fully depleted by 2032," he said.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Fong’s statements serve as a reminder that Sarawak’s efforts to consolidate its oil and gas rights are not aimed at undermining Petronas, but rather at ensuring the state’s rights and interests are protected. It is essential for all parties involved to work towards a resolution that benefits both Sarawak and the nation as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current state of the oil and gas rights in Sarawak?
A: Sarawak has the rights to distribute oil and gas, as enshrined under two exemption orders signed under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 discussions during previous federal administrations.
Q: What is the role of Petronas in the oil and gas industry?
A: Petronas is still in charge of manufacturing and exporting LNG, but not at the expense of Sarawak’s rights and interests.
Q: How can Sarawak best utilize its natural gas resources?
A: Retaining natural gas for local use would facilitate the implementation of the Sarawak Gas Roadmap, enabling the generation of power and transmission of electricity to Peninsular Malaysia.