KUCHING, December 23 – Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has affirmed that Sarawak’s gas distribution dispute is nearing resolution, with a formula to be unveiled soon by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasized that the Petroleum Development Act (PDA) 1974 and the Oil Mining Ordinance (OMO) 1958 can coexist, ensuring a legal framework for collaboration between Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) and Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas).
Abang Johari reassured stakeholders that the issue, previously seen as a legal conflict, has been largely addressed, allowing revenue from Sarawak’s natural resources to be shared effectively. He highlighted Petros’ role as the state’s sole gas aggregator, as mandated by the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (amended in 2023), underscoring its non-negotiable status. The Premier dismissed concerns about significant profit losses for Petronas, reiterating that a practical resolution is imminent, pending the Prime Minister’s official announcement.
