SARAWAK United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Secretary-General, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, expressed strong support for the recent Joint Declaration signed between the Sarawak State Government and the Federal Government, describing it as a landmark step towards enhanced federal-state cooperation in managing Sarawak’s vast natural resources.
Speaking at a press conference today, Ting highlighted the winding-up speech by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and praised his visionary and responsible leadership, particularly his unwavering commitment in negotiating the PETRONAS-PETROS matter with the federal government.
“The Premier’s efforts reflect the GPS Government’s ‘Sarawak First’ policy and prioritise the interests of Sarawakians,” he said.
“The Joint Declaration, signed on May 21 in Kuala Lumpur between our Premier and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is a significant milestone in redefining federal-state relations, especially in natural resource governance.”
The declaration officially recognises PETROS as the sole gas aggregator in Sarawak, granting it full authority over the procurement, distribution, and sale of natural gas, in accordance with Sarawak’s Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (DGO 2016).
Meanwhile, PETRONAS continues its role under the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 74), ensuring the coexistence of federal and state laws and maintaining investor confidence in Malaysia’s energy sector.
“This agreement exemplifies a win-win outcome based on mutual respect and understanding, strengthening Sarawak’s legal framework and enhancing its ability to manage over 60% of Malaysia’s gas reserves,” he explained.
Ting noted that having control over gas distribution allows Sarawak to attract investments, create jobs, and grow its economy as a clean energy hub, while also enabling joint projects between PETRONAS and PETROS in pipelines, hydrogen, and green energy.
“To support this agreement is to support a more equitable and prosperous future for Sarawak and Malaysia,” Ting said.
