By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 11: The Sarawak government has stressed that the court’s eventual ruling on the RM120 million penalty imposed on five subsidiaries of Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) will carry implications beyond financial considerations, underscoring its importance in reinforcing confidence in legal governance and ensuring the stability of Sarawak’s business environment.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Deputy Minister in the Premier of Sarawak’s Department (Legal, MA63 and State-Federal Relations), Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, said the matter should be allowed to proceed through the judicial process without interference, as justice must be upheld through proper legal channels.
She urged the public to remain patient and refrain from speculation while the case is still before the courts, noting that excessive commentary could potentially affect the proceedings.
“Let the judicial process take its course. The decision will determine the next steps. I hope the public will not make assumptions or speculate,” she told press members after officiating the presentation of contributions by the SABERKAS Women’s Bureau to residents of Rumah Seri Kenangan Kuching, Batu 12, on Tuesday (Feb 10).
The case involves five PETRONAS subsidiaries, namely Malaysia LNG Sdn Bhd, Malaysia LNG Dua Sdn Bhd, Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd, Malaysia LNG Tiga Sdn Bhd and Petronas LNG 9 Sdn Bhd, which are alleged to have failed to obtain operational licences in Sarawak as required under the Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO) 2016.
Eight notices were issued, with each entity fined RM15 million, although the ordinance allows for a maximum penalty of RM20 million per offence.
Last Friday, the Kuching High Court fixed March 2 for further case management after identifying issues that require more detailed legal submissions.
Despite differing views on certain matters, Sharifah Hasidah emphasised that relations between the federal government and the Sarawak government remain cordial.
“Differences of opinion are normal. What is important is that both parties remain mature and prudent in managing issues in the interest of the people and the state’s development,” she said. — DayakDaily
