There was a heated argument between the Utility and Telecommunication Minister, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, and Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen over the exchange of yellow liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders for the red ones.
During his winding-up on the Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Julaihi responded to Chong, stating that LPG consumers have not faced any issues.
“If there are any isolated cases, I hope the issue of exchanging yellow cylinders mentioned just now is not fabricated or manufactured by you or your associates.
“To me, these are isolated incidents. In reality, no dealers should refuse to accept the yellow cylinders.
“If they do refuse, please report it to PETRONAS or PETROSNiaga. You (Chong) can visit the stockyard where the yellow cylinders are currently stored,” he asserted.
Chong attempted to interject Julaihi.
“Let me finish my winding up. You can debate later. You are misleading the House and deviating from the amendment of this Bill. Please be seated. This is my time,” Julaihi firmly stated.
Earlier, while debating in support of the Bill, Chong raised concerns about complaints received by Democratic Action Party (DAP) members in Sibu. They stated that Petros’ exclusive role as the gas aggregator has imposed a burden on consumers.
“Petros now refuses to accept back the yellow LPG cylinders. Consequently, consumers are forced to retain the empty cylinders as dealers are reluctant to take them back.
“The reluctance stems from Petros’ refusal to accept them anymore. Mr. Speaker, Petros has been granted the sole distributorship of LPG in the state, allowing them significant financial gains.
“Why complicate life for consumers, for the common people, the ordinary Sarawakians?” Chong questioned.
Subsequently, during a press conference, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng refuted Chong’s claims that Petros dealers in Sibu were hindering the exchange of yellow LPG gas cylinders for red ones.
“My Service Centre continues to serve the people of Sibu, particularly regarding the cylinder exchange,” he affirmed.
He presented evidence indicating that up to Nov 7, 2024, 472 customers in Sibu had successfully exchanged their yellow LPG cylinders for red ones through his Service Centre.
“Thus, the assertion made by the esteemed member from Padungan concerning our Petros dealers in Sibu is inaccurate, and I feel compelled to clarify this,” he added.
When asked about the exchange process, Chieng explained that customers only need to inform the Petros dealers.
“When the dealers deliver the cylinders to the customer’s residence, the cost is RM26.60, inclusive of transportation fees. It’s as straightforward as that,” he concluded.
