Be fair to Sarawak, this is 2024 not 1974, says Deputy Premier as Sarawak defends gas distribution autonomy

Dr Sim at the National Council Meeting for Local Government, chaired by Fadillah in Kuala Lumpur on Sept 10, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 11: Sarawak is the only region in Malaysia with gas distribution autonomy, following the passage of the Sarawak Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO) 2016 in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said that the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, then Chief Minister of Sarawak, had wisely directed Members of Parliament to ensure Sarawak’s exemption from the Malaysia Gas Supply (Amendment) Act 2016.

“We must not remain naive or ignorant in nation-building, risking our goodwill built over 61 years with legal challenges over what rightfully belongs to Sarawak.

“It is not just about fairness to PETRONAS (Petroliam Nasional Berhad) but fairness to the people of Sarawak. This is 2024, not 1974,” Dr Sim said in a social media post yesterday (Sept 10).

Recently, reports alleged that PETRONAS might pursue legal action to maintain control over Sarawak’s oil and gas resources, which it has dominated since 1974. This is occurring as Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) takes full control over the region’s natural resource trading and management.

However, both Sarawak and PETRONAS have confirmed that discussions are ongoing to reach a mutual agreement on gas distribution in Sarawak.

Dr Sim, who is also Sarawak Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, emphasised that any new or amended federal legislation should respect Sarawak’s special position and autonomy as outlined in Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

He also referenced Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s acknowledgment of the importance to respect and fulfill MA63, despite not having signed it.

Dr Sim was in Kuala Lumpur for the National Council Meeting for Local Government, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof in Putrajaya yesterday.

With three papers for consideration and two notification papers presented, he reminded Sarawak leaders and officials to stay vigilant about new laws or amendments.

“Sarawak has had its own local government ordinance even before Malaysia was formed 61 years ago. If necessary, we will adapt and amend our local laws to benefit Sarawak,” he said.

Additionally, Dr Sim announced that the Ministry will participate in the ‘Cuci Malaysia’ programme on Sept 28, stressing that cleanliness should be a personal habit and cultural value for every Sarawakian. — DayakDaily