THE Joint Declaration signed between the Federal and Sarawak Governments is a clear manifestation of mutual respect and recognition of Sarawak’s regulatory framework, particularly the Distribution of Gas Ordinance, 2016 (DGO 2016).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the agreement provides clarity to the oil and gas sector in Sarawak, especially regarding the recognition of Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (PETROS) as the gas aggregator.
He expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his leadership in formalising the declaration during a signing ceremony held on Wednesday.
“This is a testament of the Prime Minister’s commitment to honour Sarawak’s constitutional rights under the Federal Constitution, Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), and Inter-Governmental Committee Report (IGC) Report,” he said during a press conference at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) building on Thursday.
Abang Johari stressed that both the federal and state laws must coexist in harmony and be respected by all parties involved in the sector.
He added that businesses dealings with the marketing, supply and distribution of gas to Sarawak consumers must comply with the DGO 2016.
Moving forward, he said Sarawak remains committed to working closely with the Federal Government, PETRONAS and PETROS to implement the framework.
The Premier said this collaboration would advance the Sarawak Gas Roadmap and support the state’s aspiration to become the ASEAN energy hub.
For future projects involving international partners, PETRONAS will be required to cooperate with PETROS under the new framework.
“This Joint Declaration shows that Sarawak’s rights are respected and that real progress comes from genuine partnership and mutual trust,” he added.
