Problem solved over continental shelf land use

KUCHING: Sarawak has reached a settlement over rights and power in managing and using land on the continental shelf in line with the provisions of the Constitution.

In stating this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the matter was discussed at the first meeting of the National Energy Council chaired by Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya recently.

At the meeting, Abang Johari said it was decided that land is a matter under the inviolable legislative and executive powers of the state.

Abang Johari attends the Sarawak Premier’s Department Hi-Tea event at Wisma Bapa Malaysia. Photo: UKAS

“It is true that the continental shelf extends up to 200 nautical miles but what’s below that cannot disregard the jurisdiction of the state, its boundaries cannot be changed. It has to be respected.

“So, we discussed that last sentence, which states that rights within state borders cannot be touched.

“Alhamdulillah, we have solved that problem,” he said at the Sarawak Premier’s Department Hi-Tea event at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, on today (Aug 5).

With the assurance of Sarawak’s bright future, Abang Johari hoped young leaders can maintain the glory that has been achieved and continue the efforts to advance this country.

Earlier, a cake-cutting ceremony was held in celebration of Abang Johari’s 74th birthday, followed by a thanksgiving prayer led by the Grand Imam of Sarawak Datuk Mustapha Kamal Ahmad Fauzi.