By DayakDaily Team
DARO, Feb 25: The Sarawak government’s decision to file a petition to review the status of several key oil and gas laws is being hailed as a necessary move to secure legal clarity and put an end to prolonged controversies that have fueled speculation and misunderstandings among the public.
In a TVS news, Deputy Minister in the Premier of Sarawak’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Ukas), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, who is also the Semop assemblyman, said the action comes as no surprise.
It follows an earlier court application by Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) concerning the status of Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS).
“This step has left Sarawak with no choice but to bring the matter to court to obtain a clear legal interpretation,” he said.
Abdullah emphasised that throughout the discussions on oil and gas issues, Sarawak has consistently pursued negotiation and mediation with the federal government.
“Not fewer than three committees have been established since this issue emerged. Ideally, it should have been resolved through discussions between the state and federal levels.
“Last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, together with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, signed a memorandum of understanding to seek a negotiated solution,” he noted during a working visit to Pulau Bruit today.
However, Abdullah explained that legal actions taken several months ago changed the situation, prompting Sarawak to file a review petition to determine the status of three critical national petroleum laws.
He expressed full support for the state government’s decision, stressing the importance of a definitive resolution.
“Let the court decide so that this matter can be settled once and for all. There has been too much speculation, especially on social media, by parties who consider themselves experts.
“Incorrect opinions have created suspicion and even slander against Sarawak, including allegations that the state is greedy or intends to harm certain parties,” he said.
Abdullah further highlighted that legal certainty is essential to prevent misunderstandings that could affect relations between Sarawak, Sabah, and the federal government.
“The people of Sarawak also want to see an end to this issue, which has dragged on too long and impacted economic planning and the state’s future development.
“This is part of our ongoing effort to defend Sarawak’s rights and interests as a state that helped form Malaysia in 1963. We are not demanding more than what the law provides; everything is based on the constitution and our enshrined rights.
“We will allow the legal process to run its course and see what the final decision will be,” he added. — DayakDaily
