KUCHING – The Sarawak Government has stated that it will leave the matter of petroleum regulatory clarification entirely to the Federal Court, following an application by Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg explained that the issue involves jurisdictional questions between the Federal Government and the State Government, and therefore requires judicial determination.
“They want directions from the court, so let the court decide. This is because it involves both the Federal Government and the State Government. Let the court determine it.
There is no need for any comment,” he said after delivering his Amanat Perdana Premier Sarawak 2026 address at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching.
PETRONAS has filed a notice of motion at the Federal Court seeking clarification on the regulatory framework governing petroleum operations in Sarawak.
The Premier stressed that the application does not significantly affect the state, as it is primarily a request for legal guidance.
When asked about the relationship between PETRONAS and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS), Abang Johari reiterated that the matter is subject to the court’s ruling.
“We will see how the court decides. Let it determine the outcome. We have laws, and we will abide by the law,” he said.
The Premier’s remarks highlight Sarawak’s position of respecting judicial processes while maintaining its stance on resource management.
The state has previously emphasised its rights under the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 and the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, which underpin Sarawak’s regulatory authority over oil and gas activities within its territory.
Observers note that the Federal Court’s decision could provide clarity on overlapping jurisdictions and potentially shape future cooperation between PETRONAS and PETROS.
The outcome may also influence investment confidence in Sarawak’s energy sector, which has been a cornerstone of the state’s economic development strategy.
The event was attended by senior state leaders, including Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, alongside Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, federal ministers, deputy ministers, and other dignitaries.
