Latest news with #DistributionofGasOrdinance2016
Borneo Post
28-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Joint declaration marks new era of S'wak-federal cooperation on resource governance, says SUPP sec-gen
KUCHING (May 28): The joint declaration signed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on May 21 is a significant milestone in redefining federal-state relations, particularly in the governance of natural resources, said Datuk Sebastian Ting. Speaking at a press conference at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today, the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) secretary-general said this agreement reflects a collaborative and constructive approach between the federal and state governments, setting a commendable precedent for resolving resource-related issues amicably and in a mutually-beneficial manner. 'In essence, SUPP views the joint declaration as a balanced and strategic approach to resource governance – an important step towards realising Sarawak's aspirations for greater autonomy and equitable development. 'We remain committed to supporting its implementation and to ensuring that its agreed-upon principles are translated into benefits for the people of Sarawak,' he said. He pointed out the arrangement between Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) was a true 'win-win' outcome – one grounded in a shared understanding while respecting each party's rights and responsibilities. He said the decision was in full alignment with Sarawak's Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (DGO 2016), reinforcing the state's legal framework for the management of its gas resources. 'The joint declaration acknowledges both the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA) and DGO, ensuring that federal and state laws co-exist and are respected by all parties involved in the oil and gas industry, including Petronas,' he said. He said the declaration reaffirms the commitment to uphold Sarawak's rights and autonomy as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report, and the Sarawak and Federal Constitutions. 'On behalf of SUPP and all my fellow ADUNs (elected representatives) – some are here with me today – we wish to commend and congratulate our Right Honourable Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari for his inspiring, comprehensive and forward-looking winding-up speech. 'We also wish to congratulate the Prime Minister and our Premier for the signing of the joint declaration,' he said.
Borneo Post
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Ministry to enhance communications strategy to improve public perception — Julaihi
Julaihi (left) and Ibrahim in good spirits during a photo call at the event. — Ukas photo KUCHING (May 27): The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunications will be strengthening strategic communications for better public perception on key issues, said its minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi. He admitted that they had been slow to respond with clarifications to certain issues, such as when the reminder letter of compliance with the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 was leaked to the media which received overwhelmingly negative perception. 'On social media, it seemed like the whole Peninsula Malaysia was attacking us. I believe many were not even aware of the full context, but we were late in providing our counter-explanation. 'However, we gradually rebuilt the narrative and provided the actual explanation so that perceptions could be balanced, especially among those who misunderstood or received inaccurate information,' he was quoted as saying during the ministry's appreciation night held in conjunction with the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here on Monday, according to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report. He said the ministry must re-evaluate and strengthen its corporate and strategic communication efforts to better convey messages to the general public and external parties dealing with government departments or agencies. Julaihi proposed that the ministry's permanent secretary Datu Jafri Lias meet with heads of departments and agencies to reassess the current communication approach and formulate a more comprehensive strategy that can be easily understood by all parties, including those outside Sarawak, who wish to engage the ministry. 'I think this is crucial, especially in this day and age where information can go viral instantly, whether it is true or not.' Also present at the event was Deputy Minister of Utility (Sarawak Energy Berhad and Petros) Dato Ibrahim Baki. Communications information julaihi narawi public perception
Borneo Post
22-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Joint declaration affirms Sarawak's rights in gas distribution, says business leader
Chai describes the agreement as a landmark step that promotes national cohesion through continued collaboration with Petronas. KUCHING (May 22): The joint declaration on gas distribution signed between Putrajaya and Sarawak affirms Sarawak's rightful role in managing its own resources, said Datuk Jonathan Chai. The Sarawak Business Federation secretary-general described the agreement as a landmark step that promotes national cohesion through continued collaboration with Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas). 'Even though it's slightly overdue and it does not encompass what we might have expected, I still welcome the joint declaration signed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and our Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg,' he told The Borneo Post . Chai, who is also Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS) secretary-general, was commenting on the declaration, which stated that all relevant federal and state laws governing gas distribution in Sarawak will coexist and be upheld by all involved parties. He said the formal recognition of Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) as the state's gas aggregator under the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 is not just a legal milestone but a bold affirmation of Sarawak's growing capacity and autonomy in managing its energy sector. 'For the business community, this translates into increased confidence, clarity and opportunities in gas-related ventures, infrastructure development, and downstream industries,' he added. Chai emphasised that the coexistence of federal and state laws on gas distribution reflects political maturity and mutual respect – key elements for long-term stability and sustainable economic growth. According to him, the dual recognition also sets a powerful precedent for how resource-rich states like Sarawak can participate more meaningfully in the national economy while advancing local aspirations. He said the upcoming collaboration between Petros and Petronas, including plans to supply up to 1.2 billion standard cubic feet of gas per day and joint ventures in green energy and hydrogen, holds great promise. 'It positions Sarawak not only as a major domestic energy hub, but also as a strategic player in the regional and global energy transition,' he said. With the anticipated increase in revenue, Chai believes Sarawak is entering a new era of economic empowerment. 'It's crucial that this growth benefits not only big corporations, but also SMEs and everyday Sarawakians – especially our youth and rural communities,' he said. Chai acknowledged that the agreement may not fulfil every expectation, but said the joint declaration is a holistic, realistic, and practical approach to resolving a complex issue rooted in historical and political realities. 'I think it's a win-win situation for both sides, under the circumstances,' he said. The declaration stated that the parties include Petronas and Petros, with the former continuing its roles and obligations under the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974). The declaration also stated that parties shall endeavour to continue to work together to detail out the framework for the benefit of the nation, taking into consideration the aspirations of Sarawak. It also confirmed the appointment of Petros as the gas aggregator for Sarawak. joint declaration Jonathan Chai lead oil and gas Petronas Petros
The Star
22-05-2025
- The Star
Man fined RM10,000 for illegal taking subsidised LPG out of Sarawak
LAWAS: A 55-year-old man from Ba'kelalan has been fined RM10,000, in default 10 months' imprisonment, for illegally attempting to transport subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) out of Sarawak. Dison Sakai pleaded guilty before the Limbang Sessions Court on Thursday (May 22) to an amended charge under Section 20(8) of the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016. The offence was committed on April 22 at around 1:30pm at a premises in Kampung Punang Kelalan, near the international border in Ba'kelalan. Dison was caught attempting to transport 30 cylinders of subsidised 14kg LPG without a licence issued by the Gas Supply Sarawak director. He had been operating the business using only a general trading licence issued by the Lawas district office. Defence counsels Eunice Ding and Joshua Baru told the court that this was their client's first offence and that he was remorseful. He had also expressed commitment to apply for the necessary licences in compliance with the ordinance, noting that the issuance of such licences had previously been under the purview of the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry. Deputy public prosecutor Ronald Felix Hardin submitted that Dison's actions had undermined Sarawak's regulatory control over its oil and gas industry, particularly with the sale of subsidised LPG to foreign nationals. Several enforcement officers from the Sarawak Premier Department and the Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Ministry were present during the court proceedings. Judge Monica Linsua imposed the sentence after considering public interest factors. Dison paid the fine. Separately at the same court, Judge Monica also granted an application for the disposal of four seized LPG cylinders. The application, filed by the Utility and Telecommunication Ministry Sarawak under Section 23A of the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, was in relation to cylinders confiscated on 22 April 22 near the Ba'kelalan border. No claims had been made for the items since the seizure. Earlier this year, reports emerged of subsidised LPG being sold for as much as RM90 in Sarawak's highlands and up to RM150 across the border.
The Star
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Joint declaration with Putrajaya allows Sarawak to exempt PETRONAS from licensing requirements, says Abang Johari
KUCHING: Sarawak can exempt PETRONAS and its subsidiaries from licensing requirements to operate in the state following the signing of a joint declaration with the federal government, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg. The Sarawak Premier said the declaration served as a guide for how PETRONAS would conduct its operations in Sarawak in collaboration with state-owned Petros. "We give them an exemption if they apply (for a licence), but they have to tell us. "PETRONAS, being a national company, we give exemption to them," he told a press conference at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly complex on Thursday (May 22). He added that the authority to issue licences and grant exemptions lies with the state's Utility and Telecommunication Ministry. The Premier also said Sarawak was committed to working closely with the federal government, PETRONAS and Petros to implement the collaborative framework outlined in the joint declaration in good faith. "This sets in motion a strategic shift towards realising Sarawak's gas potential, advancing the Sarawak Gas Roadmap and accelerating the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, in line with the aspiration of Sarawak to be the energy hub in the Asean region," he said. The joint declaration, signed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Abang Johari in Putrajaya on Wednesday (May 21), affirmed that all federal and Sarawak state laws relating to distribution of gas in Sarawak will coexist and be respected by all parties involved in such activities, including PETRONAS and Petros. It also recognised Petros as the gas aggregator in Sarawak, while PETRONAS would continue its functions and activities under the Petroleum Development Act 1974. Abang Johari welcomed the declaration as a clear manifestation of mutual respect and recognition of Sarawak's regulatory framework, particularly the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016. "This joint declaration shows that Sarawak's rights are respected and that real progress comes from genuine partnership and mutual trust," he said.
