Why the sudden complaints regarding Sarawak’s role in managing its own gas? Sarawak has been an integral part of Malaysia for over 60 years, with our oil and gas playing a vital role in the country’s economy.
Yet, only now are some questioning our right to manage our resources. If this were truly about safeguarding the nation, why was this not raised decades ago when Sarawak had little control over its wealth?
Some argue that assigning Sarawak the sole role of gas aggregator could weaken PETRONAS and jeopardise the federal system. They caution that the state might encroach upon functions meant for the federal government. However, this perspective misses the crux of the matter entirely.
The issue is not about undermining PETRONAS; it is about Sarawak ensuring that the gas extracted from its territory primarily benefits its people and industries. This is about fairness, not defiance.
The fundamental matter at hand is ownership. For years, PETRONAS has amassed billions from Sarawak’s oil and gas while the state and its populace had minimal influence over the utilisation of these revenues.
The oil and gas fuelling the nation predominantly originate from Sarawak. If the state cannot participate in decisions regarding the sale and distribution of these resources, who truly gains?
Certain quarters also question whether this move might impede federal operations. However, Sarawak is not seeking to govern PETRONAS; it merely wishes to oversee the distribution of gas produced within the state for the benefit of local industries and the power sector.
Both the federal government and Sarawak can coexist harmoniously. While one manages national operations, the other ensures that the state reaps the rewards of its own resources. Disregarding this is akin to expecting Malaya to relinquish control over PETRONAS.
Sarawak has achieved much despite its limited authority. Even with restricted powers, the state has fostered industries, invested in energy projects and enhanced infrastructure.
Rural areas, indigenous communities and local businesses have all reaped the benefits. Granting Sarawak control over gas aggregation will enable further progress, ensuring energy security and industrial advancement. These are tangible outcomes, not mere theoretical ideas.
Critics posit that this move might weaken Malaysia’s federal structure. This assertion is unfounded. The Malaysia Agreement 1963 explicitly acknowledges Sarawak’s rights over its resources, including the authority to regulate the sale of gas and petroleum within the state. Sarawak is not in rebellion; it is asserting the rights promised during the federation’s inception.
Supporting Sarawak in this capacity bolsters Malaysia while neglecting these rights weakens the nation.
The issue transcends politics. Malaysia’s economy cannot indefinitely rely solely on natural resources. Simultaneously, Sarawak’s resources remain a crucial component of the nation’s wealth.
Empowering Sarawak to oversee gas aggregation ensures that the state can cultivate industries, generate employment opportunities and make substantial contributions to the national economy. This is not self-serving; it is prudent and responsible.
Certain quarters have suggested that any review should scrutinise Sarawak’s resource management. However, Sarawak has demonstrated that even with limited control, it can deliver results.
The crux of the matter is equity. For decades, federal oversight of our gas and oil has resulted in minimal benefits for the people of Sarawak. Granting the state a greater say is not preferential treatment; it is a matter of justice.
Historical context is crucial. Sarawak entered Malaysia with commitments outlined in the MA63. One of these commitments was control over our natural resources. For years, this commitment was eroded.
The state had to fight to reclaim even a fraction of what was rightfully ours. Entrusting Sarawak with gas aggregation oversight is another step towards honouring that commitment, demonstrating that Sarawak is an equal partner in Malaysia, not merely a source of raw materials.
Consider the progress the state has made with limited authority. We have constructed infrastructure, enhanced energy accessibility and supported communities. Entrusting Sarawak with gas management will enable us to amplify these advancements. Denying this opportunity penalises those who have significantly contributed to Malaysia’s energy wealth. This is not about political manoeuvring; it is about equity and progress. Rural communities, indigenous families and local industries deserve to witness their resources managed for their benefit.
The question is straightforward: should Sarawak passively watch as others profit from our gas or should the state finally undertake responsible management? The answer is evident.
Criticism of Sarawak’s role as gas aggregator is essentially criticism of the state asserting its rightful position. Sarawak has exhibited patience and responsibility. We have proven our ability to manage resources effectively. Now, we are asserting what is rightfully ours — our gas, our oil, our future.
Granting Sarawak authority over gas distribution is not about undermining anyone; it is about enabling the state to utilise its resources for local development. Energy security, industrial growth and long-term prosperity all commence with this step.
Refusing this opportunity perpetuates Sarawak’s dependency, weakens local industries and restricts the potential of our people.
For decades, Sarawak has patiently contributed to Malaysia’s prosperity while receiving meagre returns. The opportunity to oversee gas aggregation is not solely about revenue; it is about equipping the state to plan for the future, invest in local industries and uplift communities from poverty.
Equity is long overdue and empowering Sarawak to manage its resources ensures that its people can finally experience the benefits of what has always been rightfully theirs.
The essence of the matter is clear. Malaysia requires Sarawak and Sarawak requires development. Development necessitates control over our resources and equitable wealth distribution.
For years, the state has managed what little it could. Now is the time to oversee what rightfully belongs to us. The people, industries and communities of Sarawak all prosper when the state is empowered.
This is about upholding the MA63 and associated documents, reclaiming what history pledged and securing a future where Sarawak can flourish. Criticisms from certain quarters cannot erase Sarawak’s rightful position in Malaysia.
The time has arrived for the state to manage its resources, bolster its economy and guarantee that its people are the primary beneficiaries. Sarawak’s gas, oil and industries deserve nothing less.
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DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at nazmixsuhaimi@gmail.com.
