Latest news with #MCOT
Borneo Post
02-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak's right to regulate gas fully backed by MA63, Federal Constitution, says Kota Sentosa rep
Yap emphasises that Sarawak is not merely one of the states in Malaysia but an equal partner in the federation under MA63. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (May 2): Sarawak's regulatory authority over its gas resources is legally sound and compliant with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap. His remark came in response to former Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation official Jamil Ghani, who warned that Sarawak's move could trigger 'an unmanageable federal-state regulatory overlap', potentially encouraging other states to follow suit and creating a 'regulatory nightmare'. Yap, who is a lawyer, dismissed the comparison as flawed, saying Sarawak's constitutional status is unlike that of the peninsula states. 'Unlike other states, Sarawak's autonomy over its resources is enshrined in MA63. 'Jamil's hypothetical scenario of other states imposing similar requirements does not apply, as they do not possess the same legal and historical safeguards,' he said in a statement. Yap emphasised that Sarawak is not merely one of the states in Malaysia but an equal partner in the federation under MA63, adding that the Federal Constitution and MA63 provide Sarawak with legislative and executive authority over its natural resources including gas. 'The Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 is a lawful exercise of this authority, and Petronas, like any other entity operating in Sarawak, must comply with Sarawak laws.' He added that the Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Ministry had recently issued a notice to Petronas Carigali for operating the Miri Crude Oil Terminal (MCOT) without a license, in violation of Section 7(e) of the DGO. 'The company was given 21 days to comply or face penalties under Section 21A. 'The MCOT may have operated under federal mandate for decades, but that does not exempt it from complying with Sarawak's laws. 'Sarawak has every right to regulate its gas distribution to ensure orderly and lawful operations within its territory,' he said. In view of this, Yap also urged public figures to be better informed about Sarawak's legal rights before making sweeping remarks. 'It would be proper for individuals like Jamil to first understand the legal and constitutional framework governing Sarawak's rights before making sweeping remarks. 'MA63 is not a trivial matter; it is the foundation of Sarawak's partnership in Malaysia. 'This is not about confrontation but about ensuring compliance with the law. Sarawak will continue to assert its rights in a manner consistent with the Federal Constitution and MA63,' he said. MA63 Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation oil and gas Wilfred Yap
Free Malaysia Today
02-05-2025
- Business
- Free Malaysia Today
S'wak licensing rule for Carigali ‘confrontational', sets ‘dangerous precedent', says analyst
Sarawak says Petronas Carigali's Miri Crude Oil Terminal (MCOT) must be licensed under the state's Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, failing which financial penalties will be imposed. (Facebook pic) KUALA LUMPUR : Sarawak's attempt to compel Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd to obtain a licence from the state for its Miri operations sets a 'dangerous precedent' in oil and gas governance across the country, says an analyst. Earlier today, Utusan Malaysia reported that Sarawak's utility and telecommunication ministry had, in a letter dated April 30, accused the Petronas subsidiary of violating Section 7(e) of the state's Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (DGO). In the letter, Carigali was accused of operating its Miri Crude Oil Terminal (MCOT) without a state licence and given 21 days to rectify the matter, failing which it would face financial penalties under Section 21A. Jamil Ghani, formerly of the Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation, warned that the move could lead to an unmanageable federal-state regulatory overlap. Jamil Ghani. 'The MCOT facility has been operating under federal mandate for decades. If even Petronas now needs to apply for a state licence, what stops other states from demanding the same? This sets a dangerous precedent. 'You're looking at a scenario where every state might start creating its own terms. That's a regulatory nightmare,' he told FMT. Jamil also said the letter undermined the essence of a federal-state agreement announced earlier this year. 'What the prime minister outlined in Parliament was a balanced arrangement where federal and state laws would coexist. This letter feels like a shift – from coexistence to confrontation,' he said. On Feb 17, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim told Parliament that the federal and Sarawak governments had agreed on several key principles regarding gas governance in the state. Among them, it was acknowledged that the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA) would remain the overarching law as regards oil and gas activities across the country, including in Sarawak. Meanwhile, the state's aspiration to regulate downstream gas through the DGO was recognised. It was also agreed that Petronas and its subsidiaries would retain all existing contractual obligations, including long-standing international supply agreements. Petronas entities were also exempted from having to obtain additional licences to conduct its operations in Sarawak beyond those outlined in the PDA. Jamil said the deal was intended to ensure stability. 'It was meant to settle the issue – Petronas is governed by federal law (and) the DGO was to be read together with the PDA, not in opposition to it. It was about recognising Sarawak's role without undermining Petronas' legal footing. 'So when Sarawak turns around and says: 'You now need a licence or we'll fine you', it creates confusion,' he said. Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg has insisted that the state has full authority over gas distribution activities within its borders. He said any arrangement entered with Petronas must not 'adversely affect the role of Petros as gas aggregator' or conflict with state law. He also said Sarawak's resources 'must be managed according to the laws passed by the Sarawak legislative assembly.' Beyond legal concerns, Jamil said the ongoing dispute was sending the wrong signals to investors. 'Investors are watching this closely. If federal and state authorities are pulling in different directions, it undermines confidence in Malaysia's energy governance.' The situation, if left unresolved, could escalate into a constitutional test case, he said. 'If Petronas challenges the enforcement in court, the judiciary will have to interpret whether the PDA overrides the DGO or vice versa. That would set a precedent for all oil-producing states.' While Petronas has not responded publicly to the April 30 letter, sources familiar with the matter said the company was quietly engaging both federal and state officials to avoid escalation. Jamil said only a joint federal-state clarification was necessary to restore confidence. 'There needs to be a clear, unified statement from both governments to clarify what was agreed. This isn't just about a licence – it's about protecting legal certainty in one of Malaysia's most important sectors. 'At stake is not just compliance with a state ordinance, but the very foundation of how Malaysia manages its oil and gas resources under a federal system. That cannot be left ambiguous,' he said.
Associated Press
10-02-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Compass Health Announces New Recruitment Initiative Showcasing Career Opportunities and Enhanced Benefits
EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Compass Health, Northwest Washington's behavioral healthcare leader, has launched a new recruitment initiative aimed at attracting skilled professionals to its mission-driven work, offering newly enhanced compensation packages and comprehensive benefits. The organization is actively seeking candidates across its departments, with a particular focus on filling Clinician II mental health counselor roles, especially within its WISe, MCOT, and PACT programs: Wraparound Intensive Services (WISe): This program offers holistic support for youth with complex behavioral health needs, delivering tailored care to help them live and thrive in their homes and communities. Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT): MCOT provides community-based outreach to individuals in crisis, offering intervention and stabilization services to address their immediate needs. Program of Assertive Community Treatment (PACT): PACT supports adults facing severe behavioral health challenges by meeting them where they are – often in their homes – and delivering care whenever needed, whether late at night or on the weekends. Clinician II mental health counselors play a vital role in these programs, providing therapy, treatment planning, and case management, while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure clients receive the best possible care. Compass Health is also looking for Health Information Management professionals and peer counselors to join its team, along with other key positions. 'Our team is the backbone of our mission to advance behavioral health across Snohomish, Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan, and Island counties,' said Tom Sebastian, CEO of Compass Health. 'Clinicians who provide therapy, IT professionals who maintain our systems, and front office staff who oversee daily operations all contribute to building a strong and comprehensive support network around our clients. The growing demand for behavioral health services, combined with an industry-wide workforce shortage, has presented quite a challenge over the last couple of years – but it's one we're fully committed to addressing with determination and innovation.' Compass Health stands out as an employer of choice by offering competitive compensation, recently raising its pay scale across all positions. This adjustment was based on a thorough analysis to ensure pay reflects experience, role, and the cost of living across the five counties the organization serves. In addition to its revamped compensation structure, Compass Health is proud to provide a benefits package that reflects its commitment to employee well-being. Full-time employees receive fully paid medical, dental, and vision coverage, 11 paid holidays plus two floating holidays, 16 days of vacation in their first year, a retirement plan with a 3% employer contribution after one year, and professional development benefits. Compass Health is looking for individuals who, above all, resonate with its mission and are committed to making a difference. As a proud Age-Friendly Certified Employer, Compass Health fosters an inclusive and supportive environment for all team members. The organization also sponsors workers through the H-1B visa program, creating opportunities for individuals from other countries to join its team. 'It's an exciting time to join Compass Health. We're leading several impactful initiatives – from our Broadway Campus Redevelopment to our ongoing efforts to expand access to care, working in collaboration with the state as it progresses toward statewide adoption of the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model,' added Sebastian. 'But the most significant of these initiatives is growing the team that will ultimately help us achieve these goals and deliver care to Northwest Washington. Looking ahead, we are ready to make an even great impact, together.' Compass Health is Northwest Washington's behavioral healthcare leader. A community-based healthcare agency, Compass Health integrates behavioral health and medical care services to form a key section of the community safety net and serve clients and others in need of care and support. From comprehensive mental health treatment to crisis prevention and intervention, supportive housing, children's services, community education and much more, the non-profit organization serves people of all ages throughout Snohomish, Skagit, Island, San Juan, and Whatcom counties. Media Contacts: Firmani + Associates Inc. (206) 466-2713 Jaki Brophy Compass Health [email protected]
