Abg Jo: Worries of Petros’ role as gas aggregator unwarranted, S’wak working in partnership with O&G players

KUCHING (July 11): The appointment of state-owned oil and gas (O&G) company Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) as the aggregator for the distribution and supply of gas in the state should not cause concern, said the Premier.

Speaking at the Shell Middle Distillate Synthesis (MDS) Malaysia 30th Anniversary Celebration Dinner and the Global Launch of Shell Gas-To-Liquids (GTL) Microcrystalline Waxes here last night, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg assured that all upstream and downstream gas players have nothing to worry about.

“Don’t worry. When we took over as gas aggregator, some people are worried, but don’t worry. After all, we are partners.

“Of course, we have the authority based on our law, but what the Sarawak government is doing now is based on the law that empowers us to participate and manage our resources.

“However, we cannot manage it alone. We need Shell, Petronas, PTTEP, Mubadala, so much so that I have indicated that we are going to set up an office in Abu Dhabi, which will be managed by Petros and SEB,” he said.

Abang Johari congratulated Shell MDS on its 30th anniversary, highlighting the enduring partnership between the Sarawak government and Shell MDS, which began in 1988 when he was Minister of Industrial Development.

He recalled that during a visit to The Hague, he was introduced to Shell’s innovative gas-to-liquid technology, which ultimately led to the establishment of the synthesis plant in Bintulu.

He reminisced about the initial discussions with Shell and then chief minister the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, which resulted in the Sarawak government investing RM10 million in the project.

This investment marked the beginning of a successful collaboration, making Bintulu home to the world’s first synthesis plant.

Abang Johari also reaffirmed the Sarawak government’s commitment to the development of oil and gas industry.

“Some people may think Sarawak is too eager to participate actively in the oil and gas industry. Of course, for Sarawakians it’s essential to be involved.

“That’s why when I became your chief minister, I formed Petros to allow us to be an active partner in the oil and gas industry,” he said.

Abang Johari noted that Shell has been with Sarawak since 1910 and the partnership continues.

He acknowledged the global shift towards alternative energy sources and stressed the need for research and development to leverage Sarawak’s strengths in this evolving landscape.

“People are exploring alternative energy. This means we have to do a lot of R&D (research and development) and identify our strengths to supply alternative energy in this new era.

“With that, I hope we still work together as partners just like what we did with Shell MDS. The Sarawak government will be with you as a partner for the future,” he added.