Decorum a must as Petronas-Petros talks continue, Mustapha says

Sabah and Sarawak affairs minister says Putrajaya remains open to discussions, including on the legal dispute involving Petronas and Petros.

Mustapha said the Madani government remained open to discussions on matters regarding relations between the federal and state governments, including the current legal dispute involving Petronas and Petros.

The Borneo Post reported him as saying that differences of opinion were normal, but maintaining proper conduct in the event of disagreements was of utmost importance.

“That is what we must uphold. How do we maintain decorum when our views differ? Firstly, when opinions clash, we debate to seek the truth. That is the important thing.

“Secondly, we must base our arguments on facts. Everything must be based on facts,” he said during a breaking-of-fast and media engagement session with Sarawak media in Kuching yesterday.

Mustapha also said the matter should be allowed to run its course in court.

“This is important. Once the court has made its decision, we can then move forward,” he said.

On Feb 23, the Sarawak government announced that it had commenced proceedings in the Federal Court to seek clarity on the constitutionality of the Petroleum Development Act 1974, the Continental Shelf Act 1966 and the Petroleum Mining Act 1966, and their application to the state.

The filing came a month after Petronas sought leave from the apex court to obtain judicial clarity on the regulatory framework governing its operations in Sarawak.

Despite the legal challenge, Sarawak has reiterated its commitment to continued discussions with the federal government, signalling its openness to an amicable solution even as legal proceedings unfold.

Mustapha also reiterated that the rights of Sabah and Sarawak would be defended, particularly those guaranteed under the Federal Constitution.

“That is our right, especially as it is guaranteed by the Federal Constitution,” he said, referring to the March 2 meeting of the technical committee on implementing rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

He added that Malaysians were responsible for contributing to the development of their states as well as the nation.