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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
Borneo Post
22-04-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
PSIEA 2025 out to recognise outstanding businesses in S'wak
Abang Abdul Karim delivers his speech. – Photo by Galileo Petingi KUCHING (April 22): The Sarawak Business Federation (SBF), in collaboration with the Sarawak government and Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), is committed to enhancing organisational excellence in the state through the Premier of Sarawak Industry Excellence Award (PSIEA) 2025. According to SBF president Dato Sri Abang Abdul Karim Tun Openg, the PSIEA, now in its fifth edition, aims to recognise the achievements of companies within the state, with the hope of nurturing a new generation committed to business in Sarawak. 'It is also hoped this would elevate the state's standing at both regional and global levels in an increasingly complex business landscape,' he said in his welcoming address at the award's opening ceremony at Tegas Digital Village Auditorium, Samajaya Industrial Park, here yesterday. Abang Abdul Karim said since its establishment in 2017, SBF had consistently worked towards strengthening Sarawak's industrial ecosystem; thus, PSIEA to be meant as a reflection of its commitment to fostering excellence, innovation and recognition across all sectors. 'It also serves as the highest state-level recognition in its category, honouring outstanding businesses in Sarawak. 'In this regard, we are very pleased to once again collaborate with our strategic partner, the MPC, for their invaluable support in ensuring this prestigious and credible award process,' he said. Abang Abdul Karim added the award celebrates businesses driven by strong values and a clear purpose, laying a solid foundation for Sarawak's business landscape. 'As Sarawak strives to become a high-income state, PSIEA plays a crucial role in supporting the state's economic and productivity agenda. 'Hence, I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to the Sarawak government for their unwavering support over the years,' he said. Abang Abdul Karim added that more business activities in the state should rise to the challenge, using this award as a stepping stone to inspire transformation, benchmark best practices, and build a lasting legacy in the business world. 'With strong interest from local banks in PSIEA 2025, we warmly welcome and look forward to fostering meaningful partnerships that will further strengthen the impact and sustainability of this award in the years to come,' he said. The awards ceremony was officiated at by Deputy Minister for International Trade and Investment Datuk Dr Malcom Mussen Lamoh, who represented Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan at the event.
