By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 12: The Madani government’s Cabinet has reached a consensus to resolve the ongoing issues between Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) in a fair and balanced manner, ensuring that neither the federal nor Sarawak government will lose out or have to forgo their respective rights.
Malaysia’s Minister of Transport, Anthony Loke, reaffirmed the strong relationship between the federal and Sarawak governments, stating that there are no unresolved issues that cannot be addressed—including those related to oil and gas.
“Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) has provided extensive briefings to the Cabinet on this matter, and the Cabinet has collectively agreed to resolve it in a way that protects the interests of both parties.
“It is a win-win situation, and this principle underpins the relationship between Putrajaya and Sarawak,” he told a press conference at a hotel here today.
Loke made these remarks in the presence of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg after witnessing the signing of a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) between the Sarawak government and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) for the acquisition of MASwings.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari stressed that there is finality on the oil and gas issue between PETRONAS and Sarawak, with only minor misunderstandings arising from misinformation.
“It is very clear water, only grey area with wrong information,” he said.
This comes about a week after the Malaysian government’s signalled that the national oil corporation PETRONAS as the sole guardian of the nation’s oil and gas reserves, including those in Sarawak, while recognising Petros as the State’s gas aggregator—excluding liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Loke expressed confidence that ongoing discussions will yield positive outcomes for the progress of both Sarawak and Malaysia.
“With a little more time, I am certain an agreement can be reached. I have full confidence in the wisdom of the Sarawak Premier and the Prime Minister to manage this matter effectively. Their upcoming announcement will reflect the win-win principle, benefiting all parties involved. This is the commitment from the federal government,” he added. — DayakDaily
