SABAH Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is concerned over the limited involvement of Sabah-based companies in the oil and gas sector, despite national oil company Petronas maintaining a 30% target for Sabah folk.
“Petronas has stated that it wants 30% participation from Sabah companies but so far it has not been very encouraging.
“We must make sure we achieve the 30% target,” said Hajiji in his maiden working visit to the Asian Supply Base in Labuan today.
He did not reveal the current rate of participation by local firms in the lucrative industry, while Petronas is vested with the entire ownership, exclusive rights, liberties and privileges of exploring and exploiting, in respect of petroleum resources both on and at offshore Malaysia.
Towards this end, Hajiji urged Asian Supply Base to further maximise its involvement in the industry, calling for the Sabah Energy Corporation subsidiary to further diversify its businesses.
He said this after being briefed by Asian Supply Base chairman Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman and chief executive officer Japar Esteban on the company’s future plans.
The plans include the construction of the crew change facility that will serve as the customs, immigration and security processing centre for workers going into Sabah waters, and the proposed expansion of the quay wharf estimated to cost RM240 million.
Also present were Labuan Corporation chairman Senator Tan Sri Anifah Aman and State Secretary Datuk Seri Panglima Sr Safar Untong. – The Vibes, December 8, 2023
