We're fighting for Sarawak's next 100 years, says deputy premier
Dr Sim Kui Hian at the opening of the Borneo Eco Show, a sustainable design forum and trade show in Kuching today. (Facebook pic)
PETALING JAYA : The outcome of talks between Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim over the state's oil and gas rights will shape the state's economic growth for the next century, says deputy premier Dr Sim Kui Hian.
He said the discussions centred on legal provisions and Sarawak's rightful ownership of its natural resources – talks that involve 'big money' and could significantly boost the state's revenue.
However, he said the real long-term value lies not in the upfront cash, but in Sarawak's gas reserves, a strategic asset for the state's future.
'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 said.
'How much is (at stake) with the talks between the premier and 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's the kind of money we are talking about,' he said at the opening of the Borneo Eco Show in Kuching today, Dayak Daily reported.
Last Sunday, Anwar called for calm and restraint amid escalating tensions between national oil firm Petronas and Sarawak's state-owned Petros over their licensing dispute.
Citing the need to protect mutual interest, the prime minister urged all parties to hold off any action or public statement until further discussions are held, following a conversation with Abang Johari on Saturday.
Petronas has confirmed that its exploration subsidiary Petronas Carigali had received a notice on April 30 from the Sarawak utility and telecommunications ministry accusing it of operating the Miri crude oil terminal without a state licence.
The state has given the company 21 days to rectify the matter, failing which it would face financial penalties under the state's Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016.
Petronas maintains that its operations are authorised under federal law and has expressed willingness to engage with both federal and state governments to ensure regulatory clarity.
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