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KUCHING: The creation of Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS), a state-owned company under the Sarawak Government, is seen as a strategic and bold decision that will play a pivotal role in ensuring the state’s active involvement in the oil and gas sector. PETROS was established to give Sarawak greater control over its natural resources, a move that aligns with the state’s vision to strengthen its position in the national energy market.
Sarawak’s Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, emphasized that PETROS has fostered key partnerships with industry giants, including Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS). These collaborations aim to maximize Sarawak’s participation in the oil and gas industry, which has long been vital to Malaysia’s economy.
“Tok Nan (Pehin Sri Adenan Satem) once stated, ‘if there is oil in Terengganu or in Kelantan, it is not my concern. However, if it (oil and gas) is in Sarawak, it is my concern’. This is the spirit we continue to uphold,” Awang Tengah said during his speech at the 16th General Assembly of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.
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The establishment of PETROS is part of Sarawak’s broader effort to assert its rights and responsibilities within Malaysia’s oil and gas sector. One of the notable achievements has been the signing of the Commercial Settlement Agreement (CSA) between PETRONAS, the Sarawak Government, and the Federal Government. This agreement strengthens cooperation and ensures balanced development of Sarawak’s oil and gas resources.
PETROS has also been recognized as the sole aggregator of gas activities in Sarawak, a significant milestone in the state’s energy strategy. In addition to PETROS’ success, Awang Tengah also highlighted the state’s progress under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), particularly the amendment of Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution. This amendment has restored Sabah and Sarawak to their original status as equal partners in the Federation of Malaysia.
Awang Tengah expressed his appreciation for the Federal Government’s efforts, especially Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, for addressing the issues raised through the MA63 Action Council. He also pointed to the inclusion of the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report into the Federal Constitution as a significant achievement for Sarawak and Sabah.
With these strides, Sarawak is now in a stronger position to advocate for its interests in revenue-sharing matters, ensuring a more equitable distribution of the nation’s resources. This marks a new chapter for Sarawak’s oil and gas sector, with PETROS at the forefront, leading the charge for the state’s energy future.