By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 25: The involvement of Sarawakian expertise in the discovery of methane gas at Adong Kechil in the Miri-Marudi area demonstrates that local talent is capable of leading the oil and gas (O&G) industry, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the discovery was significant not only because of the resource found, but also because it was achieved through the capability of Sarawakians themselves, addressing earlier doubts over whether the State had the expertise to manage its own oil and gas sector.
“When I established Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS), some questioned why Sarawak needed its own oil and gas company. They asked where the experts were and suggested Sarawakians were incapable of leading the industry, saying it should be left to Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS).
“But today, we have proven that Sarawakians can succeed in the oil and gas industry. The ones drilling are Sarawakians themselves,” he said when officiating at the 126th Baram Regatta in Marudi today, broadcast live by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) on Facebook.
Abang Johari said the Adong Kechil methane gas discovery also supports Sarawak’s transition towards a sustainable and low-carbon economy as the State responds to climate change challenges.
He said Sarawak was shifting its economic approach towards renewable energy, sustainability and cleaner energy sources, including hydrogen and methane gas, while seeking to add greater value to its natural resources.
“We are using Sarawak’s natural resources to help the world address climate change. That is why we are focusing on renewable energy, sustainability and new energy sources, including hydrogen.
“We also want to add value to methane gas. Today, we no longer want to depend heavily on oil because it contributes to global warming. Instead, we are making greater use of methane gas,” he said.
The Premier further said methane gas could be further developed into higher-value products, creating new economic opportunities for Sarawak.
On July 22, 2026, the Premier announced during the Sarawak Day 2026 celebration in Sibu that PETROS had achieved first oil production at Adong Kechil West (AKW), with the field producing about 800 barrels per day.
The milestone marked Sarawak’s return to onshore oil production after more than 50 years and was described as a step towards expanding downstream industries, including ammonia and blue hydrogen. — DayakDaily
