By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 8: Just as the prized empurau, often fetching up to RM1,500 per kilogramme, is reserved for the most special occasions rather than fed to cats, Sarawak’s premium crude oil is best channelled into high-value sectors to maximise its economic worth and strategic returns for both the State and the nation.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar said the quality of oil produced in Sarawak, as well as in Sabah, Terengganu and Kelantan, is superior to that of many other regions, particularly due to its lower sulphur content.
He explained that such high-grade crude is more suitable for advanced applications, including aviation and heavy industrial machinery, rather than routine domestic uses like standard road transport.
“We do not give empurau to cats. Instead, we serve it on important occasions. Likewise, oil of such value should not be used arbitrarily, but reserved for sectors that demand the highest standards,” he said at the 2026 Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri event held at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex Atrium today.
Also present were Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
In a related note, Asfia stressed that Sarawak’s rich natural resources remain a key pillar of its economic resilience, reinforcing the State’s role in underpinning national stability.
He added that Sarawak also holds long-term potential to emerge as a water resource exporter, further strengthening its strategic resource portfolio.
“Congratulations to the Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for his foresight in recognising that oil will one day be replaced by hydrogen. Through hydrogen, we can continue to drive the development of both our state and the nation,” he said. — DayakDaily
