Sarawak: Sarawak is committed to working closely with the federal government, Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) to implement the joint declaration framework in good faith. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg affirmed the state’s position, emphasizing that both federal and Sarawak laws must coexist in harmony and be respected by all parties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abang Johari highlighted that the joint declaration outlines how Petronas should conduct business in collaboration with Petros. He noted that while Petros serves as the gas aggregator, the authority to issue production licenses lies with the Ministry for Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak (MUT). The ministry holds the power to exempt Petronas from this requirement due to its status as a national company, thereby granting the exemption.

The Premier elaborated on the joint declaration signed between the federal and state governments, assuring that the agreement would remain intact regardless of future government changes. He reiterated that the declaration demonstrates mutual respect and recognition of Sarawak’s regulatory framework, particularly concerning the State Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (DGO 2016).

The joint declaration, signed at Perdana Putra by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Abang Johari, reflects an understanding reached on matters concerning Petronas and Petros. When questioned about the potential impact of the declaration on ongoing court cases between Petros and Petronas, Abang Johari indicated that the state government would defer to the legal team to decide.

The ongoing Petros-Petronas court case centers on a jurisdictional dispute over control of oil and gas resources in Sarawak. According to the declaration, Petronas will maintain its roles and obligations as outlined in the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974) and its regulations.

The Prime Minister’s Office issued a media statement following the joint declaration, highlighting that all relevant federal and state laws regarding gas distribution in Sarawak are to coexist and be respected. The statement assured that these laws would not impact Petronas, its subsidiaries, or its agreements and arrangements with third parties, including Petros.