LONDON, England: A renewed commitment is in the pipeline to find an equitable and amicable resolution on the ongoing matters involving Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) and Sarawak in the oil and gas sector.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that he had received a phone call from the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, stating that discussions are moving forward based on a ‘win-win’ approach for both Sarawak and PETRONAS.
“In this oil and gas matter, we’ve been tactfully ‘playing ball’ with PETRONAS for a while now. By now, I am sure many of you are aware of the latest developments surrounding this issue.
“However, we are working towards resolving it. In fact, the Prime Minister personally contacted me this morning (Saturday, London time), and we reached a mutual understanding to move towards a resolution.
“This solution will be based on mutual goodwill and the belief that the nation’s oil and gas wealth should be shared fairly. Sarawak has fulfilled its responsibilities,” he said during the Sarawak Agenda Town Hall session held in conjunction with Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2025 UK Edition.
In a related development, Abang Johari also highlighted the Sarawak government’s focus on strengthening the state’s economic foundation, particularly through the establishment of the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund, which has been allocated RM8 billion in reserves.
He explained that once Sarawak’s economic stability reaches a strong and sustainable level, the benefits of this growth will be channelled back to the people through a well-planned and inclusive economic development strategy.
“Our current focus is on consolidating the state’s economic base.
“Once we have achieved solid economic stability, the returns will be distributed to the people through a structured and comprehensive approach across all sectors,” he said.
