SARAWAK has developed its own approach to managing its gas resources that Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg says will not undermine the role of national oil company Petronas, but instead ensure fairness for the state as Malaysia’s largest gas-producing region.
Speaking at the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) convention at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today, Abang Johari said the framework being formulated is intended to balance national and state interests.
“We have our own way, our own formula that does not affect Petronas, and at the same time can give fairness to us as a gas producer. This is what we want to implement in gas management,” he said.
He emphasised that the issue should be resolved amicably between the state and federal governments in the interest of national stability and shared economic benefit.
Sarawak, he noted, holds approximately 62 per cent of Malaysia’s gas reserves and is seeking a more participatory role in the governance of the resource rather than leaving its management solely to Petronas.
“Because of that, we use existing laws, and since this matter has now been brought to court, we are prepared to face it,” he said.
Abang Johari rejected suggestions that Sarawak was being overly aggressive in its demands, insisting that the state’s position was rooted in fairness rather than greed.
“We are not greedy. Some people accuse us of killing the goose that lays the golden eggs. No, we only want justice,” he said.
He reiterated that GPS remains committed to defending Sarawak’s rights, particularly in relation to oil and gas resources, which he described as central to the state’s long-term development strategy.
Abang Johari also outlined Sarawak’s broader energy ambitions under its Gas Roadmap, which focuses on downstream industries, including methanol production.
He said Sarawak has already become the largest methanol producer in the region, with further expansion expected to generate more employment opportunities for local communities.
In addition, the state plans to develop a new port at Tanjung Embang, which will serve as a strategic gas terminal to support its expanding energy infrastructure. - April 19, 2026
