MIRI: Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Central Youth committee member Lim We Peng has accused Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak of distorting facts, misleading the public, and using the oil and gas issue for political gain.
In his statement, Lim said that DAP Sarawak exaggerated Sarawak’s recognition of the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974) while ignoring the successful negotiations by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg that strengthened Sarawak’s oil and gas rights.
“Sarawak has secured greater control over oil and gas, including the federal recognition of the Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO 2016), giving Sarawak aggregator rights and Petronas agreeing to supply up to 1.2 billion standard cubic feet of natural gas per day, up from 450 million previously.
“By using misleading statements, they aim to create distrust towards the Sarawak government.
“In reality, anyone within the oil and gas industry would acknowledge that the Premier has successfully defended Sarawak’s autonomy over its oil and gas resources, securing the best possible outcome for Sarawak.
“Yet, DAP Sarawak has intentionally twisted the facts, not only downplaying this achievement but also inciting public dissatisfaction for their own political benefit. This proves that DAP Sarawak has run out of ideas and is resorting to sensationalism to remain relevant,” he said.
He added that DAP Sarawak’s insistence on abolishing PDA 1974 completely ignores the reality of the situation.
“If the Sarawak government were to aggressively push for the law’s repeal, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim could escalate the matter to the courts.
“If that happens, the dispute could be tied up in legal battles for five, 10, or even more years, effectively freezing all negotiations on oil and gas rights,” he said.
He stated that if DAP Sarawak genuinely cares about Sarawak’s oil and gas rights, why have not they organised delegations to Putrajaya to meet the Prime Minister and express their concerns.
“Instead, they remain in Sarawak, stirring public resentment and creating unnecessary tension.
“This approach only serves to divide Sarawakians, plunging the state into endless political disputes that hinder its progress.
“The political chaos in Peninsular Malaysia, where parties are deeply fragmented and constantly at odds, has led to economic stagnation and social instability,” he said.
In the meantime, he said that Sarawakians must see the reality which is the Sarawak government has successfully secured practical and substantial benefits for Sarawak.
“It has ensured greater autonomy and influence in managing oil and gas resources. This is the best and most realistic outcome. In contrast, DAP Sarawak offers no viable solutions—only baseless accusations and political rhetoric.
“Sarawak’s future must not be dictated by political opportunists like DAP Sarawak. The people must unite and support the GPS government’s efforts to protect Sarawak’s interests.
“Only through unity and pragmatic action can Sarawak continue to move forward, free from unnecessary political disputes that hinder its growth,” Lim asserted.
