PETRONAS has become a hot topic amid discussions of potential downsizing. Social media is buzzing with speculations, but one X user confidently pointed out that this isn’t the first time such discussions have surfaced.
At the end of last year, reports stated that Petronas is analysing its productivity to streamline operations and eliminate inefficiencies. This follows reports of potential job cuts due to a gas distribution deal with Petroleum Sarawak Bhd. The company aims to remain operationally focused, commercially agile and cost-efficient.
An X user said back in 2016 when the oil prices were reduced significantly, the company laid off 1,000 staff members. Downsizing has always happened in major companies like Petronas when the economic situation isn’t looking good. But the user adds that this time the downsizing may be more “permanent”.
bukan kali pertama Petronas buat downsizing. sebelum-sebelum ni pernah juga berlaku. cuma bezanya sebelum ni berlaku sebab kejatuhan harga minyak mentah dunia mendadak;
contohnya 2009 lepas krisis kewangan dunia harga minyak jatuh daripada US$140 per barrel kepada serendah… pic.twitter.com/PDdEp3u9f6
— Syahir (@syahirsyhr) January 10, 2025
Additionally, another user is pointing fingers towards some of the states in this country. Citing that one state will get significantly more for themselves, yet would still demand funds from the federal government. The user alleged that the state government is then able to use these funds freely.
bayangkan negeri dapat 30 billion setahun. khas utk satu negeri sahaja. negeri lain kena kongsi 70 biilion. kerajaan negeri bebas buat apa sahaja dgn duit tu. gaji masih federal yang bayar. last2 rakyat kena cukai lebih teruk sebab nak cover hilang berbillion.
— Hello (@ulam_12) January 10, 2025
Following that, social media users are defending the petroleum company, citing that it is a business, not a civil service to the public. It needs to prioritise its longevity and profitability. Reorganisation is normal for a company to equip itself to the market’s demand.
Petronas like any entities have the right to resize their organisation as per market demand. People need to remember it is not a civil service whereby you won’t get sacked for underperformance or you need to hold on to the staff until the company bankrupt.
— Powerofx (@ncsh88) January 10, 2025
Others suggest the company focus on other forms of energy, as they may have experience with petroleum, they may gain some with a new type of energy. — Jan 11, 2024
Petronas nak diversify pun tak tau dah nak buat apa, move to energy sector la kot. Solar dan clean energy
— Nabil Fikry 🇲🇾🇵🇸 (@BuragasAnatomi) January 11, 2025
