PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for all parties to refrain from making statements or taking actions regarding the dispute between Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) to preserve mutual interests.
He announced that further discussions between the federal government and the Sarawak state government will take place upon Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s return from an official visit to London, aiming to finalise the Petronas-Petros matter.
According to Anwar, he spoke with Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg yesterday regarding the Petronas-Petros matter based on principles previously agreed upon.
“I have high confidence that this issue can be resolved prudently by standing firm on a path of healthy and meaningful discourse, God willing,” Anwar said.
The dispute centers on Sarawak’s push for regulatory control over its oil and gas resources through Petros, challenging Petronas’ exclusive rights under the federal Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA).
Despite a 2020 Commercial Settlement Agreement, key issues remain unresolved. Anwar emphasised resolving the matter respectfully, in line with Sarawak’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), while maintaining national unity. The issue carries significant political and economic implications for Sarawak and Malaysia.
“Once the premier returns from his official visit to London, United Kingdom, we will promptly hold further discussions to finalise the matter,” he said. —May 4, 2025
Main image: AFP Photo
