ABU DHABI — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said issues related to Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) regarding gas distribution rights in Sarawak have been resolved through negotiations, including his meeting with Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
There was no ambiguity in policy matters as the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974) applies nationwide and is accepted by both the Sarawak state government and Petros, Anwar said in a press conference with Malaysian reporters here, yesterday.
“However, we (the Federal Government) also recognise that Petros was established to enable Sarawak to pursue its own gas exploration and distribution initiatives,” he said at the conclusion of his visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday.
Anwar said the Sarawak Gas Distribution Ordinance 2016 does not supersede the PDA 1974, the Federal Constitution, or other federal laws, and that Petronas’ position remains unaffected, following Sarawak’s decision for Petros to take over the role as sole gas aggregator in the state from Petronas.
“The PDA 1974 remains the overarching framework for governance in Malaysia’s oil and gas industry. All existing agreements are intact, as disturbing them would complicate relationships with major international companies. This has been mutually accepted,” he said.
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 but allows Sarawak control over gas distribution for domestic purposes. This exemplifies cooperation between the two entities.”
He added that discussions involving the Attorney General, Petros, and Petronas, and that he met the Sarawak Premier on Jan 1 to resolve issues related to gas distribution in the state.
“Premier Abang Johari has introduced new initiatives, similar to Petronas’ inclusive approach. For projects in Sarawak, Petronas involves Petros, while Petros includes Petronas in exploration, hydrogen ventures, and other efforts within Malaysia.
“Our policy is to respect the rights of Petronas and Petros in their respective domains,” he said.
He added that any related projects — particularly those requiring substantial financing — will inevitably involve Petronas.
Anwar arrived in the UAE on Sunday for a three-day working visit, his second to the country October 2023.
The Prime Minister is in London today for a five-day working visit to Malaysia’s fourth largest trading partner among European Union member countries.
On Jan 19, the Prime Minister will depart for Brussels to continue international engagements. – January 15, 2025