Premier Denies Claims of Taking Petronas’ Rights Over O&G Resources in Sarawak
BETONG (June 5): Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg today dismissed claims that the state government has usurped all the rights of Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) over oil and gas resources within Sarawak’s territorial boundaries under the Petroleum Development Act (PDA) 1974.
Sarawak’s Authority Over Oil and Gas
Abang Johari clarified that the state government holds power over oil and gas resources through the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958, which was established prior to the formation of Malaysia in 1963. This ordinance has never been repealed and remains in force.
“So, we have the power over oil and gas, and we gave it to Petros (state-owned Petroleum Sarawak Berhad),” he stated during the Betong Division Gawai Dayak celebration.
Gas Distribution Rights
He further emphasized that the state government has enacted the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, appointing Petros as the gas aggregator.
“So, I have never taken the rights of Petronas over gas resources and gas distribution,” he added.
Addressing Misconceptions
Abang Johari refuted allegations suggesting that Petronas would be adversely impacted by Petros, without delving into specifics.
“There are people who wrote that Petronas will soon be badly affected by Petros,” he said. “No, no such thing. I know that it is a sin to take over the rights of others. But it is also a sin of others to take our rights.”
Sarawak’s Financial Success
Highlighting Sarawak’s financial achievements, Abang Johari noted the state’s impressive revenue collection, which he attributed to hard work rather than luck. He mentioned that Sarawak’s revenue for the previous year was the highest among all Malaysian states, surpassing even the developed state of Selangor.
“Selangor has a revenue collection of about RM4 billion while Sabah collected about RM6 billion. But Sarawak has over RM13 billion,” he said.
He also revealed that a menteri besar from another state had sought funds from Sarawak, showcasing the state’s robust financial position.
Jealousy from Peninsular Malaysia
Abang Johari warned Sarawakians to be vigilant of envious individuals from peninsular Malaysia who might attempt to disrupt the state’s progress.
“We, in the Gabungan Parti Sarawak, must know which is diamond and which is glass,” he said, urging the people to distinguish between valuable and deceptive intentions.
The Premier reiterated that Sarawak’s prosperity is the result of diligent efforts by both the government and its people. “If we don’t work hard and are lazy, we cannot go anywhere,” he concluded.