KUCHING – The Chief Political Secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, has firmly denied allegations suggesting that Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) is linked to the financial difficulties faced by Sarawak Cable.
He described the comparison as misleading and unfair, arguing that it undermines the professionalism and capabilities of Sarawakians. His remarks followed the publication of an article titled “Loss-making Sarawak Cable is a warning to Sarawak Premier, and can PETROS survive on its own?”, which he said created a distorted perception of the state’s economic management.
“It sounds professional because it comes with analyst estimates. It’s as if the people of Sarawak know nothing and are incapable in the eyes of the writer and analyst,” he wrote in a Facebook post.
Fazzrudin clarified that Sarawak Cable and PETROS operate in entirely different industries. Sarawak Cable is engaged in cable manufacturing and infrastructure, while PETROS is focused on oil and gas. He emphasised that PETROS must continue to exercise caution in areas such as financial governance, employment, living standards, and environmental sustainability.
Highlighting PETROS’ achievements, he noted that the company has grown to become Malaysia’s third-largest oil and gas producer, demonstrating the tangible benefits of state-level resource control. PETROS has also advanced Sarawak’s green economy agenda, including the development of the Kuching Low-Carbon Gas Hub, a modern industrial park designed to support sustainable growth.
The company is expanding into carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) technology, while also delivering practical benefits to households. In Bintulu’s Sungai Plan, PETROS has already distributed piped natural gas and is expected to supply up to 3,500 homes.
Fazzrudin further pointed to international recognition of Sarawak’s green transition under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Zohari Tun Openg, with PETROS playing a central role. He cited the Miri Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) project, where each phase involves significant participation from local companies and Sarawakian workers.
He explained that during the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Commissioning (EPCC) phase, 22 percent of the workforce must be Sarawakian. By Phase 3, utilities will be fully implemented by local firms, while Phase 4 will see piping works carried out entirely by Sarawak companies. Once completed, the plant will be operated exclusively by local workers.
Currently, the project is in Phase 2. Fazzrudin stressed that while constructive criticism is welcome, it must be balanced with recognition of Sarawak’s progress since Abang Johari assumed office in 2017.
“Sarawak has experienced development, success and global recognition under the Premier’s leadership,” he said, underscoring the state’s achievements in both economic growth and sustainability.
