KUCHING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hailed the recent joint declaration signed between Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) as a “win-win situation” for both the federal government and Sarawak.
Anwar acknowledged that the process leading up to the agreement had its uncertainties, something he described as normal, given the long-standing complexities tied to the Petroleum Development Act (PDA) 1974, under which Petronas has operated for decades.
He stressed that Petronas is a national oil company, not one exclusive to Peninsular Malaysia and recognised Sarawak’s growing capabilities and desire to develop its own oil and gas sector through Petros.
“Malaysia and Sarawak are no longer in the 1970s or 80s. Today, our youth are well-qualified and experienced, having trained and worked in companies like Petronas and Shell.
“They believe Petros should be given space, particularly in managing gas distribution in Sarawak. From that perspective, this is truly a win-win outcome,” he said.
Anwar said this in his speech during the 2025 State-level Gawai Dayak Dinner held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) last night (June 22).
Anwar noted that while discussions between Putrajaya and the Sarawak government took time, given the legacy structures in place, he said the end result reflects shared national and state interests.
“I am confident that both Sarawak leaders, including Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and the federal government agree that Sarawak’s interests must be protected—just as the nation’s broader interests must also be safeguarded.
“That is the spirit I hold. I do not want the country as a whole to feel neglected or at a loss. At the same time, I don’t want the people of Sarawak to feel unappreciated or sidelined.”
He explained that the agreement acknowledges that both Petronas and Petros have vital roles to play in advancing the oil and gas industry.
“If we accept that reality, then both must work together to elevate Sarawak and Malaysia. I am confident this partnership will succeed.”
In May, the federal and Sarawak governments formalised a joint declaration, outlining cooperation between Petronas and Petros. The signing ceremony, held at Perdana Putra, was witnessed by Anwar and Premier Abang Johari. Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, described the deal as a major step forward in aligning national and state development objectives.
The understanding takes into account both the Petroleum Development Act 1974 and Sarawak’s amended Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO) 2016, recognising Sarawak’s authority to regulate gas distribution within the state.
Back in February, Anwar affirmed the federal government’s support for Sarawak’s ambition to grow its own oil and gas industry, which is being facilitated through the enforcement of the DGO beginning March 1.
