By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 26: There is strong potential for untapped oil and gas reserves in the coastal areas of western Sarawak, stretching from Lundu and further southwards, which could be explored using advanced technology.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said geological indications suggest that hydrocarbon resources may exist along the coastal belt, extending from Kimanis in Sabah through Brunei Bay and into several areas in Sarawak, including Baram, Mukah and Balingian, with further potential reaching western regions such as Lundu that have yet to be fully explored.
“We are seeing a gradual geological trend along the coastal region, but many of these areas remain underexplored, including western Sarawak,” he said after witnessing the contract signing ceremony between PTTEP Sarawak Oil Limited and Brooke Holding Sdn Bhd (BHSB) for the Provision of Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) for the Sirung Production Platform at a hotel here today.
Abang Johari said the development of new technologies, particularly those used by Thailand’s PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP), could unlock new opportunities for exploration in these frontier areas.
“If we have the kind of technology being applied by PTTEP, we may be able to identify significantly more reserves in western Sarawak,” he said.
He noted that previous exploration efforts in certain coastal and offshore areas were limited due to high costs and the presence of sour gas, which made extraction more challenging.
However, he said technological advancements have now made it possible to separate and manage carbon dioxide content, turning sour gas into sweet gas, thereby improving commercial viability.
“This changes the equation. Carbon can now be separated and stored, making previously less attractive fields more feasible for development,” he added.
The Premier also highlighted the importance of collaboration with international energy players, saying Sarawak must continue to work closely with global companies to strengthen its role as a producing region beyond traditional oil and gas hubs.
“We must cooperate with international companies and also position ourselves as a producer alongside other regions such as the Gulf states,” he said.
He added that PTTEP and its partners are currently advancing engineering works for the Sirung-1 field, with progress reportedly ahead of schedule.
“Presently, Brooke Holding Sdn Bhd is involved in the deployment of topside structures and key equipment for the project,” he added.
The signing ceremony marked a continued collaboration between PTTEP Sarawak Oil Limited and Brooke Holding in advancing offshore oil and gas development in the State. — DayakDaily
