By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, May 9: Ongoing negotiations between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg over oil and gas (O&G) matters involve “big money” and will determine Sarawak’s economic trajectory for the next 100 years, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Dr Sim stressed that the discussion is grounded in law and revolves around Sarawak’s rights over its natural resources, particularly involving Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros).
He also gave a vivid analogy to illustrate the scale being discussed in the negotiations.
“How much is the Premier talking about with the Prime Minister now? Well, if it’s successful, RM5 billion can buy all the shophouses in Sibu, and another RM5 billion can buy all the shophouses in Miri. That’s RM10 billion upfront.
“Next year, if it is still the same amount of money, you’ll be buying all the shophouses in Kuching.
“After that, what are you going to buy? There will be no more shophouses to buy in Sarawak. That is the kind of money we are talking about,” he said during the launch of the Borneo Eco Show (BES) 2025 held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.
Nevertheless, Dr Sim reminded the public that what lies beyond the upfront cash is the true long-term value—Sarawak’s gas reserves.
“Sarawak’s gas is our next 100 years. We are almost the fifth or sixth largest gas holder in the world. That’s why it is important for us to have our own laws to safeguard our interests,” he stressed.
Dr Sim’s comments come as Sarawak continues to push for greater control over its natural resources under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) framework, building on its momentum from asserting regulatory authority through the Oil Mining Ordinance and Distribution of Gas Ordinance. — DayakDaily
