KUCHING: The commercial potential of Sarawak’s crude oil is highest when utilised for high-value industries rather than regular domestic use, offering greater strategic economic returns for both the state and the nation.
Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN), Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, said the oil produced in Sarawak, along with that from Sabah, Terengganu, and Kelantan, is of superior quality, with lower sulfur content compared to other regions.
He explained that such premium crude is better suited for high-technology sectors, including aviation and large-scale machinery, instead of everyday applications like diesel for motorcycles or boats.
“We do not feed empurau fish worth RM1,500 per kilogramme to cats; instead, we serve it at important events.
“Just like the high-value empurau fish, it is not used carelessly but reserved for special purposes, similarly, our oil, due to its premium quality, should not be used for diesel, motorcycles, or boats, but rather for sectors that require higher standards,” he said.
He made these remarks during the Aidilfitri 2026 gathering at the Atrium of the DUN Complex on Wednesday.
The event was attended by the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, as well as Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Asfia also emphasised that the state’s abundant natural resources are a key driver of Sarawak’s economic resilience and play an important role in supporting national economic stability.
He noted that Sarawak has the potential to become an exporter of water resources in the future, further diversifying its strategic resource portfolio.
“Congratulations to the Premier of Sarawak for envisioning a future where oil will eventually be replaced by hydrogen, and with hydrogen, we can advance both our state and our nation,”he said.
At the event, Wan Junaidi and Fauziah also witnessed Asfia’s presentation of a RM10,000 contribution to the Sarawak Orphans Welfare Board (PERYATIM).
