THE recent declaration by the Sarawak government that Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) will serve as the state’s sole gas aggregator, with no room for negotiation, signifies more than just an administrative change.
It declares the purpose and foresight regarding Sarawak’s economic and energy autonomy. This initiative, articulated by Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, positions Sarawak to govern its natural gas reserves, heralding a significant economic shift and enhancing its populace.
If viewed objectively, this decision isn’t just about regulatory control or licensing; it’s about fostering long-term, meaningful growth.
The appointment of PETROS will enable the fast-tracked development of the Sarawak Gas Roadmap (SGR), with infrastructure and value-added gas-based projects expected to create over 100,000 high-quality jobs statewide.
This would lead to a significant leap towards Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
For too long, resource-rich Sarawak has struggled to turn its natural assets into sustainable prosperity. Now, with a Sarawak-based entity driving the agenda, the potential for locally anchored development looks promising.
Julaihi explained that making PETROS the sole aggregator will not only strengthen Sarawak’s autonomy but also enable a Sarawak-first approach in the gas industry.
This development shouldn’t be seen as exclusion; it’s about ensuring Sarawak has direct control over how its resources are used and that the economic benefits flow back into the community.
Petronas, understandably, is concerned with its existing contractual obligations and investor commitments.
Negotiations are now going on, with Sarawak committing to uphold the Petroleum Development Act 1974 and the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958. The aim is to establish a collaborative framework that enables both parties to advance Sarawak’s objectives while fulfilling national and international obligations.
Such collaboration can only lead to a balanced, prosperous outcome for both parties and, ultimately, Malaysia.
This new chapter in Sarawak’s energy policy is a noteworthy example for other resource-rich regions striving for sustainable, self-determined growth.
PETROS’ exclusive role as a gas aggregator could serve as a model for local empowerment and other regions hoping to attain more control over their natural resources.
If successful, PETROS’ role could set a precedent for decentralised energy governance, inspiring other resource-rich states or regions to pursue similar initiatives for local empowerment and economic benefit.
As Sarawak steps into this role, the nation—and indeed the world—should watch closely. This may be the spark that drives broader conversations about energy governance and local economic empowerment across resource-dependent regions.
In a nutshell, the impact of making PETROS Sarawak’s sole gas aggregator is, to say the least, far-reaching.
It will not only set the state on a path toward sustainable growth and local prosperity.
Enhancing economic empowerment and growth would not only foster the creation of job opportunities but also significantly boost skill development.
It would also boost local industry and infrastructure development, significantly enhancing the state’s energy security and sustainability.
Furthermore, it would allow much of the revenue from the gas industry to remain within the state, strengthening Sarawak’s control over its natural resources.
This autonomy enables Sarawak to set terms that prioritise local interests, aligning with its economic and environmental goals.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
